The New Orleans Saints had another disappointing season in 2024. The team currently sits at 5-11, and fired head coach Dennis Allen after a loss to the Panthers in November. New Orleans has not made the playoffs since 2020. However, it could be the dawn of a new day as the Saints are rumored to be interested in hiring these two coaches.
Rumor: Saints Like These Two Coaches
The New Orleans Saints are reportedly interested in Aaron Glenn and Matt Nagy for their vacant head coaching position. Both candidates bring unique qualifications, but each coach may also come with risks. The Saints have faced significant challenges in recent years, including roster turnover, inconsistent quarterback play, and a lack of offensive firepower. The Saints offense struggled to replicate the success of the Drew Brees-Sean Payton era with Dennis Allen and Derek Carr. Key playmakers like Alvin Kamara, Chris Olave, and Rashid Shaheed have had moments of brilliance, but the team has lacked consistency while battling injuries. The quarterback situation, with Derek Carr at the helm, has been serviceable but not transformative enough. If Glenn or Nagy were to be hired, they would have their work cut out for them in righting the ship.
Aaron Glenn: Defensive Mindset and Familiarity
Aaron Glenn is currently the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. He is known for his ability to develop defensive talent and foster a competitive culture. Glenn has an elite understanding of defensive schemes as he is a former cornerback himself. Although Dennis Allen was also a defensive-minded coach, Glenn could still be a good fit for a Saints team that has historically thrived on strong defense.
Why Glenn Could Be a Good Hire
Glenn’s connection to the Saints as a former assistant coach adds a layer of familiarity, which could help him transition smoothly into the head coaching role. His work with the Lions, transforming their defense from one of the league’s worst into a respectable unit, demonstrates his ability to make the most of available talent. His leadership could revitalize a defense that remains the Saints’ strongest asset.
Concerns About Glenn
Glenn’s lack of head coaching experience is a potential drawback. The Saints need a leader capable of addressing the offensive issues that have plagued the team. Hiring Glenn could leave the offense without the visionary guidance it desperately needs, putting pressure on the coordinator hire to balance the team.
Matt Nagy: Offensive Experience and Redemption
Matt Nagy, currently the Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator, offers a very different profile. Nagy previously served as the head coach of the Chicago Bears, where he had an up and down tenure. Nagy is known for his work on the offensive side of the ball. While he earned Coach of the Year honors in 2018, his tenure in Chicago ended with questions about his ability to develop quarterbacks and sustain offensive success.
Why Nagy Could Be a Good Hire
Nagy’s offensive pedigree aligns with the Saints need to rejuvenate their offense. Working alongside Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid has likely benefited Nagy greatly. Nagy could provide a much needed boost to the Saints offense, particularly in optimizing the talent of players like Kamara and Olave. Nagy could also be a key part of helping decide the Saints future at quarterback.
Concerns About Nagy
Nagy’s struggles in Chicago, particularly with quarterback development, raise red flags. If the Saints deem Derek Carr their answer at quarterback, they need a coach who can bring out the best in him. Mitchell Trubisky struggled with Nagy as his coach in Chicago. Nagy’s issues in Chicago could resurface, and the Saints could find themselves stuck in the same cycle of mediocrity. If New Orleans wants to move on from Carr for a younger quarterback, they need to be certain Nagy is the guy to develop him.
Final Thoughts
The Saints are at a crossroads, and their next head coach will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future. Aaron Glenn offers defensive expertise and familiarity, while Matt Nagy brings offensive innovation and experience. Both have strengths that address different aspects of the team’s needs, but each comes with significant risks. The Saints must carefully evaluate which candidates best align with their long term vision.
Main Photo: Audrey Richardson – USA Today Sports
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