As the New Orleans Saints search for their next head coach, much of the buzz has centered around Kellen Moore. The former Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator and current Philadelphia Eagles OC has been a popular name in coaching circles. However, with multiple top candidates opting to stay put, special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi has also emerged as a serious contender. While he may not be the flashy choice, Rizzi’s leadership, experience, and deep ties within the organization make him a name to watch as the search nears an end.
New Orleans' coaching search has been, well, a process. After parting ways with Dennis Allen, the Saints reportedly had their eyes on several high-profile candidates. However, multiple potential hires, including former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who accepted the head coaching job with the New York Jets, Buffalo Bills OC Joe Brady, and Washington Commanders OC Kliff Kingsbury, have chosen not to have in-person interviews with the Saints.
Additionally, Mike McCarthy, the biggest name left on the market, recently announced he will take the 2025 season off to focus on coaching opportunities in 2026. These developments have forced the Saints to pivot and reassess their options. Now, Kellen Moore and Darren Rizzi appear to be the top choices for the job.
Even on other levels, New Orleans has faced setbacks. Klint Kubiak, who served as the Saints' offensive coordinator for one season, took the same role with the Seattle Seahawks. Longtime Saints linebackers coach Michael Hodges also accepted the same role with the Cincinnati Bengals, further complicating the Saints' search for stability.
As the coaching carousel spins and teams lock in their next leaders, the New Orleans Saints remain the last team standing without a head coach, but that’s not by accident. Their patience signals one thing, they’re willing to wait for Kellen Moore. With Moore fully locked in on preparing the Philadelphia Eagles for the Super Bowl, the Saints’ decision to hold off on making a hire speaks volumes.
Moore has been a game-changer for the Eagles this season. His offensive creativity has unlocked a new level of efficiency, seamlessly blending the run and pass game to maximize playmakers, most notably Saquon Barkley, who delivered a historic season in just his first year in Philadelphia. The Eagles' offense has thrived under Moore’s leadership, with simplified route concepts and pre-snap motion helping Jalen Hurts see the field more clearly and play to his strengths. Instead of forcing Hurts into a rigid system, Moore has slowed the game down for him, tailoring the scheme to what he does best.
The Saints have seen it all unfold, and they’re playing the long game. If they truly believe Moore is their guy, waiting a couple of extra weeks is a small price to pay for the right hire. The Saints are running out of options, but that doesn’t mean they are out of good choices. While Kellen Moore may be the more recognizable name, Darren Rizzi’s leadership, experience, and familiarity with the organization could make him the right fit for the job. As the Saints move closer to making a decision, Rizzi should not be overlooked.