By worldlive 
Board meeting LIVE: New Orleans Saints Coaching Search finally escalated” as NFL Insiders’ Insights strongly On What GM Loomis Might Do aim ongoing pressure….
The Saints’ season is nearly over, and they have a lot of work ahead of them in the summer. Filling their open head coaching post will be the top priority, and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero offered some predictions about what New Orleans would do on Saturday morning.
Background checks on potential replacements for previous head coach Dennis Allen, who was fired on November 4, have started for the Saints.
There’s a perception in league circles that general manager Mickey Loomis will choose someone he knows, and the name of Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who lost to Allen by a slim margin the last time, is frequently brought up.
Given how a locker room ravaged by injury has fought for him, interim coach Darren Rizzi is well-liked in the club and is anticipated to be a candidate. Both Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Mike McCarthy share Saints ancestry. However, the group is investigating each of the best applicants.
Glenn remains the top candidate associated with the Saints, which makes sense. ESPN’s Adam Schefter also linked New Orleans to Mike Vrabel, while Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady has emerged as one of the top betting favorites.
Over a month ago, I evaluated potential coaching options for the Saints. Glenn, Vrabel, and Darren Rizzi were among my top-tier picks, while Brady was a tier below. Rizzi’s interim stint might not be enough to secure the job.
Interestingly, Mike McCarthy’s name has been mentioned, but the Saints should consider a wide range of candidates rather than leaning on familiarity.
If the team opts for a defensive-minded coach like Vrabel or Glenn, the offensive scheme and staff might largely remain intact. However, some changes are inevitable, especially on defense, as the new coach will likely want to bring in trusted personnel.
The New Orleans Saints are actively seeking a new head coach following the dismissal of Dennis Allen on November 4, 2024, after a seven-game losing streak that left the team with a 2-7 record. General Manager Mickey Loomis is leading the search, with several candidates emerging as potential successors.
Aaron Glenn
Aaron Glenn, currently the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, is a prominent candidate. Glenn previously served as the Saints’ defensive backs coach from 2016 to 2020, establishing a strong rapport within the organization. His familiarity with the team’s culture and defensive acumen make him a compelling choice.
Mike Vrabel
Former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel is another notable contender. Vrabel’s tenure with the Titans was marked by a physical playing style and consistent defensive strength. His experience and leadership could be valuable assets for the Saints as they aim to rebuild.
Ben Johnson
Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, has garnered attention for orchestrating one of the league’s most potent offenses. His innovative play-calling and ability to develop talent could address the Saints’ offensive inconsistencies.
Darren Rizzi
Interim head coach and special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi has led the Saints since Allen’s departure. Rizzi’s leadership during this transitional period and his rapport with players have been commendable. His familiarity with the current roster and organizational dynamics position him as a viable candidate for the permanent role.
Mickey Loomis’ Approach
Mickey Loomis is known for valuing familiarity and internal relationships when making significant decisions. This inclination suggests that candidates with prior connections to the Saints, such as Aaron Glenn and Darren Rizzi, might have an advantage. However, Loomis has also demonstrated a willingness to consider external candidates who can bring fresh perspectives and strategies to the team.
Challenges Ahead
The Saints face several challenges that the new head coach will need to address:
Quarterback Situation: With Derek Carr under contract and salary cap constraints, the incoming coach must develop a plan to maximize the quarterback’s performance.
Salary Cap Management: The Saints have historically navigated tight salary cap situations. The new coach will need to collaborate with the front office to manage financial constraints while building a competitive roster.
Injury Management: The team has been plagued by injuries to key players. Implementing effective training and medical strategies will be crucial to maintain player health and performance.
Conclusion
The Saints’ coaching search is a pivotal moment for the franchise. Mickey Loomis’ decision will significantly impact the team’s direction in the coming years. Whether opting for a familiar face like Aaron Glenn or Darren Rizzi, or bringing in fresh perspectives from candidates like Mike Vrabel or Ben Johnson, the choice will reflect the organization’s commitment to returning to playoff contention.
As the search intensifies, the Saints aim to identify a leader who can navigate the current challenges and leverage the team’s strengths, steering the franchise toward a successful future.