Saints HC candidate Joe Brady advances to AFC championship game

By Ross Jackson

Another presumed top option for the New Orleans Saints and their open head coach position is advancing to a conference final. 

This weekend was a busy one for the Saints, as they visited with some key head coach candidates on virtual interviews. Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore interviewed with the Saints on Friday and Saturday, respectively.

Then, both candidates helped lead their teams to victory during the divisional round. Brady’s Bills survived a nail-biter that was just one dropped two-point conversion away from a possible overtime game. 

Brady’s offense was the highlight of a snowy day for Buffalo. 

The Bills ran for 147 total rushing yards and managed the conditions with no turnovers and a trio of rushing touchdowns. While quarterback Josh Allen only threw for 127 passing yards, he was efficient and ran for two touchdowns. 

Brady’s offense will be one of his biggest selling points as he pursues an opportunity as a head coach. The Saints have a unique perspective on his growth, having seen him progress from an offensive assistant in New Orleans from 2017 to 2018 to achieving immediate success in Buffalo.

New Orleans saw one of their top options, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, become available sooner than expected. However, for Moore, Brady, and Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, they’ll have to wait it out for at least another weekend. 

The Saints can begin in-person interviews with candidates no longer coaching playoff teams on Monday.