The New Orleans Saints have officially announced a major overhaul of their coaching staff under new head coach Kellen Moore. The team has brought in several experienced coaches to fill key roles, aiming to strengthen all facets of the roster for the upcoming season.
Doug Nussmeier has been named the team’s offensive coordinator, bringing 24 years of coaching experience, including nine seasons in the NFL. Nussmeier, a former fourth-round pick by the Saints in the 1994 NFL Draft, returns to New Orleans after spending the 2024 season as the quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. Under his guidance, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had a career-best season, posting a 103.7 passer rating, ranking among the league’s best in passing efficiency, completion percentage, and total touchdowns. His impact extended into the postseason, where Hurts played a crucial role in leading Philadelphia to a Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Hurts’ dominant performance in the championship game earned him Super Bowl MVP honors after throwing for 221 yards, two touchdowns, and rushing for 72 yards with an additional touchdown—setting a record for the most rushing yards by a quarterback in a Super Bowl.
On the defensive side, Brandon Staley has been hired as the Saints’ defensive coordinator. Staley, who previously served as the Los Angeles Chargers head coach, is expected to bring an aggressive and strategic approach to New Orleans’ defense. In addition to Staley, the Saints have promoted Phil Galiano to special teams coordinator and added a host of new assistants, including Joel Thomas as associate head coach and running backs coach, Terry Joseph as defensive pass game coordinator, and T.J. Paganetti as run game coordinator.
The coaching staff also sees several other key additions. Robert Blanton joins as assistant defensive backs coach, Grady Brown takes over as cornerbacks coach, and Bo Davis assumes the role of defensive line coach. Former Saints offensive lineman Jahri Evans has been named assistant offensive line coach, continuing his involvement with the franchise. Veteran coach Scott Linehan has been added as a senior offensive assistant, while Mike Martinez will serve as assistant to the head coach.
Other new hires include Jay Rodgers as edges coach, Peter Sirmon as linebackers coach, Scott Tolzien as quarterbacks coach, Kyle Valero as assistant wide receivers coach, and Keith Williams as wide receivers coach. The Saints have also made adjustments to their strength and conditioning team, with Ted Rath appointed as director of sports performance and Charles Byrd and Riley Ireland joining as strength and conditioning coaches.
With this revamped coaching staff, the Saints are aiming to build a competitive roster and make a strong push for success in the upcoming season.
