Saints conclude virtual interview with Aaron Glenn

In perhaps the biggest news of the New Orleans Saints’ head coaching search so far, the team wrapped up its virtual interview with the position’s front runner, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, the team announced on Friday.

Glenn is expected to be atop the list for not only the Saints but the New York Jets, as well. Glenn was drafted No. 12 overall by the Jets in 1994, so returning to the franchise as its head coach is likely to be appealing.

Though with ownership woes and the conflict around quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the Saints may present a more stable environment for a first-time head coach. New Orleans would be able to provide more patience as well, as the team works to get out of its salary cap situation and move beyond its aging roster.

Per senior NFL insider Josina Anderson, the Saints and Jets are expected to “battle it out” for Glenn. 

It isn’t hard to see a world in which the Saints can truly compete here. But it will all come down to Glenn and which landing spot he feels he can find more success with after joining.

The Saints have interviewed three candidates over the last three days. Along with Glenn, the Saints met with New York Giants offensive coordinator and assistant head coach Mike Kafka and Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. The team is expected to interview interim head coach Darren Rizzi next week.

Glenn met with the Jets on Thursday and has had a busy schedule following his virtual interview with the Saints. On Friday, he will also be interviewed by the Las Vegas Raiders, and on Saturday he will meet with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears. He also declined an interview with the New England Patriots, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.