By Ross Jackson
As it turns out, the Sean Payton coaching tree isn’t so bad after all. The New Orleans Saints may be working to part ways with the previous regime, but this year’s top head coach candidate may be looking to pilfer it.
As the Chicago Bears are reportedly working to finalize a deal with Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to become their next head coach, it looks like he may be interested in some of the Saints’ current and former staff in the process.
Former Saints coach Dennis Allen has already been connected as the next potential defensive coordinator. Meanwhile per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, interim head coach and special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi is said to be a top option for the Bears’ special teams coordinator role should he not land a head coach position with New Orleans or elsewhere.
Rizzi should be the top special teams coordinator and assistant head coach on the market if he doesn’t get a head coach role. He interviewed with the Saints and New York Jets for their open jobs. Rizzi is expected to be among the group to get a second interview with New Orleans, as well.
Per Schefter, Rizzi could have interest from six or more teams should he hit the special teams market. A much deserved wide range of opportunities for one of the league’s best in his field.
The 2024 interim head coach is very unlikely to stick around in New Orleans, unless he is hired into the full-time role. In the last 20 years, there are no examples of any interims sticking around with their team if not given the opportunity to take on the long-term role. Rizzi should be no exception.
Along with the Bears, he has also been connected to the Denver Broncos. Former Saints coach Sean Payton could reunite with Rizzi after Denver fired special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica. The Bears and Broncos may be the top options to watch should Rizzi exit New Orleans, but they’ll be far from the only opportunities he will earn.
(Posted on Monday, Jan. 20 at 7:40 pm)
