Saints need more than just a head coach

By Ross Jackson

NEW ORLEANS — All eyes are understandably on the head coaching search in New Orleans, but for the Saints, another equally important opportunity is available on their staff. 

When the team fired former coach Dennis Allen after Week 9, it not only opened the head coach position but also the defensive coordinator role for 2025. 

Sure, the Saints could fill both needs with one move by hiring a candidate like Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn or Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. The two would be able to take the helm at head coach while taking over the defense simultaneously. 

But if New Orleans instead went on to hire ex-Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy, landing a solid defensive coordinator would become the next major move. That’s where McCarthy’s experience with coaches across the league could come in handy if hired. 

After the Saints’ long history of stout defenses came to a brutal end last season, the need for defensive revitalization is more than apparent. Getting the right voice and leader on that side of the ball will be imperative after they land their next coach. Preferably a defensive leader that leans on speed and playmaking to help be more competitive against modern offenses that will challenge with strong run games and mobile quarterbacks.