The New Orleans Saints are in the midst of one of the most pivotal offseasons in recent memory. After the abrupt end to their 2024 season, a year filled with both promise and disappointment, the Saints front office has set its sights on a new direction — and that starts with finding a new head coach. Following the departure of Dennis Allen, who had struggled to get the best out of a talented roster, New Orleans is on the hunt for someone who can reignite the team’s championship aspirations. As the search unfolds, numerous names have surfaced, with reports coming out daily about who’s been interviewed, who’s expected to be next, and what rumors are swirling around the Crescent City.
### The Decision to Part Ways with Dennis Allen
Before diving into the potential candidates, it’s important to understand the context behind the Saints’ head coaching search. Dennis Allen, who had been with the team in various capacities for over a decade, was handed the reins in 2022, following Sean Payton’s departure to the Denver Broncos. Unfortunately, the transition to Allen was rocky. While the Saints’ defense remained one of the more formidable units in the NFL, the offense — which had already been struggling under Payton’s final years — failed to improve under Allen’s leadership. With quarterback play that was inconsistent at best, a lackluster offensive line, and a disappointing finish to the 2024 season, it became clear that a change was necessary.
After careful consideration, the Saints front office decided to part ways with Allen and move forward with a fresh face who could elevate the team to the next level. With a roster that includes some established stars like running back Alvin Kamara, defensive end Cameron Jordan, and wide receiver Chris Olave, New Orleans is in a position where a strong coaching hire could make the difference between mediocrity and contention in the NFC South.
### The Interview Process: Who Has Been Interviewed?
The Saints’ head coaching search has been methodical, with the team casting a wide net to identify the best possible candidate. Early reports have revealed several names of coaches who have already been interviewed, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most talked-about candidates:
#### 1. **Eric Bieniemy – Offensive Coordinator, Washington Commanders**
Eric Bieniemy is a name that has come up in head coaching discussions for years, particularly after his success as the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs under Andy Reid. Bieniemy’s ability to craft dynamic offenses, especially with a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes, has made him one of the most sought-after coaching candidates. After leaving the Chiefs for the Washington Commanders in 2024, Bieniemy had a chance to prove his worth without the Reid-Mahomes connection, and he showed promise despite Washington’s struggles.
The Saints are reportedly very interested in Bieniemy, and for good reason. The team’s offensive woes have been a key problem in recent seasons, and Bieniemy’s reputation as a sharp offensive mind could be just what New Orleans needs. His experience in coaching at a high level, coupled with his potential to build a modern, explosive offense, makes him a strong candidate for the position.
#### 2. **Dan Quinn – Defensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys**
Dan Quinn’s name has emerged as another prominent candidate for the Saints’ head coaching job. Quinn, who served as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to 2020, is currently the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, where he’s helped transform one of the league’s most aggressive and disruptive defenses. His defensive prowess is unquestioned, and many see him as a potential long-term answer for a team like the Saints, who have a stout defense but need a better overall culture.
Quinn has experience leading a team to the Super Bowl, though his tenure in Atlanta ultimately ended in disappointment. Still, he’s seen as someone who can quickly turn a defense into a juggernaut, and given New Orleans’ established defensive talent, he could be a good fit. The only question remains whether the Saints are looking for a defensive-minded coach again or if they prefer a more balanced approach.
#### 3. **Ben Johnson – Offensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions**
Ben Johnson’s meteoric rise in the coaching ranks has been one of the more intriguing stories in recent years. The former tight ends coach turned offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions has been instrumental in revitalizing the Lions’ offense. Under his leadership, quarterback Jared Goff had one of the best seasons of his career, and the team’s offense became one of the most potent in the NFL.
The Saints are reportedly interested in Johnson because of his ability to create innovative offensive schemes. His success in Detroit, where he made the most of a roster that wasn’t loaded with elite talent, shows he can work with a variety of players. If the Saints are committed to rebuilding their offense, Johnson could be the answer, bringing a modern, high-tempo approach that the team desperately needs.
#### 4. **Shane Steichen – Head Coach, Indianapolis Colts (Interviewed)**
Shane Steichen, who guided the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense to the Super Bowl in 2023 and became the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts in 2024, has also been mentioned in connection with the Saints’ search. Steichen’s ability to work with young quarterbacks — having helped develop Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia — is a valuable asset for a team like the Saints, who could be looking to secure their quarterback of the future. Though Steichen’s Colts tenure is in its infancy, his success in Philadelphia has made him a desirable candidate.
### Who’s Next? Upcoming Interviews and Rumors
As the search continues, there are still several names on the horizon. Some of the rumored candidates who have yet to be officially interviewed include:
#### 1. **Jim Harbaugh – Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines**
The rumor mill has been abuzz with speculation about Jim Harbaugh potentially leaving his post at the University of Michigan to return to the NFL. Harbaugh, who previously coached the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance, is known for his no-nonsense approach and his ability to turn teams around quickly. While Michigan’s success under Harbaugh has made him a beloved figure in college football, many believe he could make a return to the NFL if the right opportunity presents itself. The Saints could be that opportunity.
Though nothing has been confirmed, the Saints have reportedly expressed interest in speaking with Harbaugh. If the rumors are true, it would be a major shift in direction for New Orleans, as Harbaugh’s focus is typically on building a strong, balanced team — a philosophy that could align well with the Saints’ current roster.
#### 2. **Mike Kafka – Offensive Coordinator, New York Giants**
Mike Kafka, the offensive coordinator for the New York Giants, is another name gaining traction in New Orleans. Kafka has received praise for his work developing quarterback Daniel Jones and overseeing an offense that improved dramatically in 2024. Kafka’s background as a former quarterback makes him an appealing choice for a team like the Saints, who need someone to develop the next phase of their offense.
### Rumors and Speculation: What’s Really Happening?
As with any high-profile coaching search, rumors are swirling around potential candidates. One of the most persistent rumors is that the Saints may be more inclined to hire an offensive-minded coach this time around, given the team’s struggles on that side of the ball. Additionally, the Saints’ front office has been said to be looking for a candidate with strong leadership qualities who can instill discipline and culture in the locker room — two areas that some feel have been lacking under Allen’s tenure.
While no official decision has been made, it’s clear that the Saints are taking their time with the process, aiming to hire a head coach who can elevate the team both offensively and defensively.
### Final Thoughts
As the New Orleans Saints continue their search for a new head coach, it’s clear that they are carefully considering all options. From offensive masterminds like Eric Bieniemy and Ben Johnson to seasoned veterans like Dan Quinn and the wild card of Jim Harbaugh, the team is exploring a wide range of possibilities. With the right hire, New Orleans could be poised for a return to contention, but with a roster full of talent and a rapidly changing NFC South, the pressure is on the front office to get this decision right. The next few weeks could be critical in shaping the future of the Saints. Stay tuned for further updates as the process unfolds.