New Orleans Saints
BREAKING: New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson Makes Bold Move, Appoints New Manager and Head Coach After Controversial
BREAKING: New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson Makes Bold Move, Appoints New Manager and Head Coach After Controversial Tenure of Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi
In a bold and surprising move, New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson has made sweeping changes to the franchise’s leadership structure, announcing the appointment of a new General Manager and head coach in a bid to restore the team’s competitive edge. After a series of controversies surrounding the tenure of Mickey Loomis and the underperformance of Darren Rizzi, Benson has decided that a new direction was needed to guide the Saints back to prominence. This development has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL, as the Saints look to reboot and regain their place as one of the league’s elite franchises.
Benson’s decision to make major leadership changes follows a period of stagnation for the Saints, who have struggled to find their identity since the retirement of long-time quarterback Drew Brees. Loomis, who had been with the team for nearly two decades, was instrumental in bringing success to New Orleans, including the 2009 Super Bowl championship. However, recent years have seen a series of missed opportunities, questionable roster moves, and an inability to rebuild effectively after Brees’ departure. As the Saints enter a new era, Gayle Benson has taken a decisive step to address the franchise’s issues head-on.
Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi’s Controversial Tenure
Mickey Loomis has long been one of the most influential figures in New Orleans, serving as the Saints’ General Manager and Executive Vice President. While Loomis’ tenure brought success, including a Super Bowl victory and numerous playoff appearances, his performance in recent years had come under fire. The team’s struggles to find a successor to Brees at quarterback, as well as roster mismanagement, particularly in terms of salary cap flexibility, left the Saints with little room to maneuver in free agency and the draft.
Loomis’ decision to take on Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and Taysom Hill as quarterbacks post-Brees, without committing to a long-term solution, has been heavily scrutinized. The Saints’ offensive struggles in 2022 and 2023 further exacerbated the perception that the front office had lost its way. Loomis, who had once been regarded as one of the NFL’s best executives, had increasingly become a lightning rod for criticism, with many questioning his ability to rebuild a team without Brees at the helm.
Meanwhile, Darren Rizzi, the team’s special teams coordinator, found himself under fire for his inability to elevate the performance of one of the most crucial yet often overlooked areas of the game. Despite a solid start to his tenure, Rizzi’s special teams unit failed to deliver when needed most, with consistent mistakes in coverage, field position, and missed kicks undermining the team’s overall efforts. While special teams are not always the focal point of a franchise’s performance, Rizzi’s failure to significantly improve this unit led to his eventual dismissal.
As a result, Gayle Benson decided that it was time for a major overhaul—one that would allow the Saints to rebuild with a fresh, clear vision.
A Handshake Deal with Sean Payton: The New General Manager
In a surprising turn of events, Gayle Benson has reached a handshake deal with Sean Payton to return to the Saints organization, but in a new role as General Manager. Payton, who led the Saints to their only Super Bowl title in 2009 and became the franchise’s most successful coach, left New Orleans after the 2021 season. His departure marked the end of an era for the Saints, as Payton’s leadership had been integral to the team’s sustained success over more than a decade.
Now, in a dramatic move that no one saw coming, Payton will return to the organization, but this time in a managerial capacity. As General Manager, Payton will have full control over roster decisions, the draft, and overall team strategy. This role will allow Payton to exercise his football acumen in a way that is distinct from his previous role as head coach. He will be tasked with rebuilding the team’s roster, managing the salary cap, and overseeing the long-term direction of the franchise.
The timing of Payton’s return could not be more critical for the Saints. Despite a talented roster that includes defensive standouts like Cam Jordan and Marshon Lattimore, as well as a solid foundation on offense, the team has struggled to find a consistent identity since Brees’ departure. Payton’s expertise in building a championship-contending team will be a welcome addition to a franchise looking to return to prominence in the NFC.
Payton’s Leadership and Vision
Payton’s return to the Saints comes with high expectations. His leadership and strategic brilliance as a coach were evident during his 15-year tenure as head coach, where he consistently fielded high-powered offenses and brought stability to a franchise that was once in disarray following Hurricane Katrina.
As General Manager, Payton will focus on the following priorities:
. Finding the Franchise Quarterback
One of the biggest challenges Payton will face is solving the quarterback dilemma. Drew Brees’ retirement in 2021 left a massive void, and since then, the Saints have been unable to find a long-term solution at the position. Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and Taysom Hill have all had their moments, but none have been able to secure the job for the long term. Payton will likely look to bring in a quarterback through the draft or free agency who can lead the Saints into the future. Whether he sticks with Winston or seeks a new face under center remains to be seen, but Payton’s experience in developing quarterbacks will be key to this process.
Roster Overhaul
Payton’s previous success came from his ability to blend offensive innovation with strong defensive play. The Saints’ defense remains one of the most underrated units in the NFL, but Payton will need to find more pieces on offense to ensure the team’s long-term success. This includes rebuilding the offensive line, adding more playmakers at wide receiver, and finding a running back who can contribute both in the ground game and the passing game.
Payton has always prioritized balance, and with his background as an offensive mastermind, he will ensure the Saints’ offense can keep up with the best in the league.
Cap Management and Long-Term Success
The Saints have been operating in salary cap hell for years, with Loomis known for constantly restructuring contracts to free up space for immediate roster moves. Payton will need to balance the short-term and long-term needs of the team, ensuring that the Saints can remain competitive in the near future without saddling themselves with long-term financial problems.
The New Head Coach: A New Era Begins
Along with the appointment of Payton as General Manager, Gayle Benson has confirmed that the Saints will also hire a new head coach to guide the team on the field. While the identity of the new coach has yet to be disclosed, there are several strong candidates who could fit the Saints’ needs.
Given Payton’s extensive involvement in the process, it’s likely the new head coach will share his vision and be someone who complements Payton’s leadership style. Candidates like Eric Bieniemy (Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator) and Ben Johnson (Detroit Lions offensive coordinator) are both seen as potential fits, especially considering their offensive pedigree. The Saints will need a head coach who can help develop young talent, maximize the potential of their quarterback, and continue to build on the defensive foundation Payton helped establish during his tenure as head coach.
The appointment of a new head coach signals a fresh start for the Saints, with Payton at the helm of the front office and a new leader expected to take the reins on the field.
What This Means for the Future of the Saints
With Sean Payton taking over as General Manager and a new head coach on the horizon, the future of the New Orleans Saints has taken a significant turn. The team’s roster is filled with talent, but the leadership changes are crucial to unlock their full potential.
For Gayle Benson, this is a pivotal moment in the history of the franchise. The decision to move on from Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi signals her commitment to returning the Saints to championship contention. Under Payton’s stewardship, the franchise has a strong chance to rebound from its recent struggles and create a winning culture that will last for years to come.
While there is still much work to be done, Payton’s leadership, along with the hiring of a new head coach, gives the Saints a much-needed path to success. Fans in New Orleans can be optimistic about the future as the team embarks on a new era of promise and potential.
Gayle Benson’s bold decision to make changes at the top of the New Orleans Saints’ hierarchy signals the beginning of a new era for the franchise. With Sean Payton returning to the organization as General Manager and a new head coach expected to be announced shortly, the Saints are poised for a fresh start. This move comes after years of stagnation under Mickey Loomis and Darren Rizzi, and the hope is that Payton’s leadership can restore the Saints to their Super Bowl-winning ways. The next few seasons will be crucial, but for now, the future of the Saints looks brighter than it has in years.
New Orleans Saints
BREAKING: Saints sign possible starting quarterback to play alongside Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara ahead of 2025 NFL season
BREAKING: Saints sign possible starting quarterback to play alongside Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara ahead of 2025 NFL season
The New Orleans Saints are in the middle of a quarterback battle. Now, they have signed a possible starter to their roster.
The New Orleans Saints might have one of the weakest quarterback rooms in the NFL. However, that hasn’t stopped the team of having a quarterback battle to see who will command the offense. An offense, by the way, that has the likes of Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara on the roster.
According to Adam Schefter, from ESPN, the Saints have signed QB Tyler Shough to his rookie contract. This will be a fully-guaranteed $10.795 million contract. This is a part of the whole second-rounders signing guaranteed deals. Now, the quarterback is ready to go for training camp.
At pick No. 40, Shough is the last player picked in the 2025 NFL Draft to get a fully-guaranteed deal. The contract also includes annual ‘Roster Bonus‘ structure, something that only first round pick have. With this, Shough will receive the majority of his pay each year during the first week of training camp.
Shough has to earn his spot
While many think Shough will start, he has to earn the starting role. He is currently competing with Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. Shough was picked in the second round so there is some sort of hype behind him. However, the fact that he hasn’t been announced as the starter might concern some as the competition isn’t the most tough.
Rattler and Haener failed to deliver last season. Shough played for Louisville in 2024 and he threw for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, all while completing 62.7% of his passes. Shough didn’t set the College Football stage on fire, but at least he brings a fresh face to a roster that desperately needs a good passer.
The Saints should have a decent offense
Newly-appointed head coach Kellen Moore made a name for himself by being an explosive play-drawer as offensive coordinator. Moore likes big plays, establishing play-action and explosive runs. Now, he will have to be more lenient as his quarterbacks are not proven NFL talents.
That doesn’t mean the Saints are talent-less on offense. Chris Olave, when healthy, is a top-tier wideout in the league. Also, Alvin Kamara is one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the NFL. He is a very good runner, and an elite pass-catcher, making him one of the best running backs you can have.
Taysom Hill to Denver? Reunion with Sean Payton Could Be Brewing
In what could become one of the most talked-about NFL moves of the offseason, rumors are swirling that Taysom Hill may be on his way out of New Orleans, and the Denver Broncos are reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation. With the Saints undergoing a transformation at quarterback, Hill’s future with the franchise that gave him a chance is suddenly in question.
Hill, the dynamic Swiss Army knife of the Saints, has long been a fan favorite in New Orleans thanks to his versatility, toughness, and explosive playmaking. But as the team shifts focus toward younger signal-callers and a traditional quarterback setup, his high price tag and undefined role are now under scrutiny by the front office.
Enter Sean Payton, the former Saints head coach who now leads the Denver Broncos. Payton is the coach who believed in Hill more than anyone, once calling him “Steve Young-like” in his potential. Under Payton’s guidance, Hill played quarterback, tight end, special teams, and more. Now, there’s growing buzz about a potential reunion between the two in Denver.
Reports from multiple sources suggest the Broncos could make a move for Hill if the Saints release him as a cap casualty or if he becomes trade bait. With Denver also experiencing quarterback uncertainty and needing offensive versatility, Hill could be seen as the perfect chess piece in Payton’s playbook once again.
Fans in New Orleans are split on the possibility of losing Hill. Some believe it’s time to move forward with a younger, cheaper roster, especially as the team tries to retool and compete in a wide-open NFC South. Others see Hill as a cultural cornerstone—a leader whose heart and grit can’t be measured in stats or salary.
Meanwhile, Denver fans are buzzing at the thought of bringing Hill to Mile High. With Russell Wilson gone and questions surrounding their current quarterback room, Hill could be used in hybrid packages that inject creativity and unpredictability into an offense in need of life.
From a business standpoint, moving Hill could help the Saints gain cap flexibility. He’s currently under a contract that includes voidable years and bonuses that escalate his hit. A trade or release would be difficult emotionally but potentially smart financially, especially as the team eyes the future.
Still, for many Saints fans, letting Hill go would feel like losing a part of the team’s soul. He’s been there through playoff pushes, quarterback injuries, and dramatic fourth-down conversions. His toughness and passion embodied the post-Drew Brees era in a way no one else did.
For now, both teams are staying silent, but the signs are growing louder. If Taysom Hill does end up in Denver, it wouldn’t just be a strategic move—it would be a sentimental reunion between a player and the coach who believed in him from the very start. And it could shake up both fanbases in a major way.
New Orleans Saints
Derek Carr rises like a phoenix to ignite hope for a roaring New Orleans Saints revival
Derek Carr rises like a phoenix to ignite hope for a roaring New Orleans Saints revival
Derek Carr: A New Era for the New Orleans Saints
With the onset of the NFL season, the New Orleans Saints find themselves at a critical juncture, brimming with renewed hope and aspirations. At the heart of this narrative is Derek Carr, whose arrival as the team’s quarterback has breathed new life into a franchise eager to reclaim its standing among football’s elite.
A Transformative Transition
Carr’s move to New Orleans signifies more than just a new chapter in his personal journey; it represents a pivotal moment for the Saints as they strive to rejuvenate their offensive dynamics. After dedicating almost a decade to the Las Vegas Raiders, Carr enters this new arena equipped with extensive experience and an insatiable drive to win, qualities that the Saints believe will foster immediate success. His renowned leadership and adeptness at dissecting defenses are already creating a ripple effect in the locker room, instilling a collective sense of determination and direction among the team.
Under Carr’s stewardship, the Saints are intent on realizing their offensive capabilities—a goal that has been at the forefront of their offseason preparations. His skill set is expected to enhance the team’s performance considerably, especially in a division known for its fierce competition. Carr’s proficiency in connecting with receivers and executing quick, decisive plays will be crucial as the Saints navigate the rigors of NFL competition.
Cultivating Relationships and Trust
A vital component of Carr’s integration into the Saints is the rapport he is forging with key offensive teammates. The chemistry between a quarterback and his receivers can often spell the difference between triumph and defeat, and Carr is actively working to build that essential connection. His early interactions with emerging stars like Chris Olave and seasoned veteran Michael Thomas hint at a promising aerial attack that could redefine the Saints’ offensive strategy.
Furthermore, Carr’s leadership style transcends the gridiron, as he willingly embraces the role of mentor to younger players. His commitment to instilling a rigorous work ethic is a testament to his respect for the franchise’s illustrious history. By fostering growth within the squad, Carr exemplifies an understanding that a strong team culture is foundational for long-term success.
Navigating the Road Ahead
Yet, the journey to success is laden with obstacles. The Saints are not only managing internal dynamics but also facing considerable external pressures. With a fanbase eager for playoff victories and a roster brimming with talent, the expectations loom large. Carr’s seasoned experience in high-stakes scenarios will be indispensable as he leads the team through the season’s inevitable challenges, reminding his teammates of the importance of focus and resilience.
Moreover, the Saints’ coaching staff has the essential task of capitalizing on Carr’s strengths while addressing areas that require improvement. The collaboration between Carr and the coaching staff will be pivotal in crafting game plans that maximize his unique abilities, ensuring the team can adapt effectively against a variety of opponents.
Forging a Lasting Legacy
As the season progresses, Carr’s influence on the Saints promises to extend beyond mere statistics. His presence heralds an optimistic shift in momentum for a franchise that has endured its share of trials in recent years. The hope is that Carr will not only guide the Saints back to playoff contention but also inspire a new generation of players to embrace the gritty spirit emblematic of New Orleans football.
Ultimately, the path ahead for Carr and the Saints is one marked by ambition and determination. Each game will serve as an opportunity to etch a legacy that resonates deeply with a passionate fanbase and pays homage to the franchise’s rich history. With every snap of the ball, all eyes will be on Carr—the linchpin of the Saints’ aspirations and the embodiment of hope for a city whose heart beats for football.
New Orleans Saints
New Orleans Saints star running back Alvin Kamara has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $24.5 million.
New Orleans Saints star running back Alvin Kamara has agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $24.5 million.
securing his future with the franchise through the 2026 season. This deal comes after a tense offseason marked by contract negotiations and Kamara’s absence from mandatory minicamp due to dissatisfaction with his previous contract structure, which included nearly $25 million in non-guaranteed salary for 2025. Kamara emphasized that he was not seeking a raise but rather guaranteed money and expressed his desire to retire as a Saint. Despite the earlier contract drama, Kamara has delivered a strong performance in the 2024 season, leading the NFL in touchdowns early on and proving to be a key offensive weapon for the Saints under coordinator Klint Kubiak. The extension was confirmed by Kamara’s agent and announced officially by the Saints, ending speculation about his future with the team and trade rumors. Kamara remains the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdowns and has consistently surpassed 1,000 yards from scrimmage in each of his seven seasons.
New Orleans Saints
BREAKING: Saints Set To Cut Ties With Star Pair Of WRs Who Contributed In Past Years
BREAKING: Saints Set To Cut Ties With Star Pair Of WRs Who Contributed In Past Years
NFL roster competitions are wide open at this time of year, and the New Orleans Saints’ young offense could see hefty turnover.
The Saints have a few mainstays, like running back Alvin Kamara, wide receiver Chris Olave, and tight end Juwan Johnson. But after a 2024 season in which 17 players recorded at least one catch, there are bound to be some returners that get cut loose.
Focusing specifically on the wide receiver position, Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and Brandin Cooks will be on the team barring an untimely injury. That probably leaves three spots on the 53-man roster to break camp for the regular season, and there are going to be at least five contenders for those spots.
Earlier this week, Matthew Paras of NOLA.com projected the roster. Paras predicted that two former undrafted free agents who saw significant time on the Saints’ active roster in 2024, Kevin Austin Jr. and Mason Tipton, would be the final roster cuts at the position.
Cedric Wilson, Bub Means, and Dante Pettis were projected to make the team.
“Wilson has familiarity with Moore, dating back to their days in Dallas. Means has had an impressive offseason, which could give him the edge over other young prospects like Kevin Austin and Mason Tipton,” Paras wrote. “Pettis is an obvious returner candidate, though he’s also displayed some chemistry with the quarterbacks.”
Austin, who was originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, made his NFL regular season debut with the Saints, playing in eight games and recording 11 catches for 151 yards.
Tipton, a Saints signee after the 2024 draft, played in 11 games, catching 14 passes for 99 yards. Neither player recorded their first career touchdown.
Obviously, there’s a lot of football between now and Week 1. Either Austin or Tipton could already have the inside track, or someone could win a job with an impressive performance between training camp and the preseason.
However, the NFL is a bottom-line business, and this roster competition will be one to watch as the Saints look to build the best possible offense for rookie quarterback Tyler Shough.