NFL
Taysom Hill and Gayle Benson Explain Why the Saints Are a Different Team Under Darren Rizzi
“The players feed off his energy, and it’s helped the entire organization step up to a new level,” Taysom Hill and Gayle Benson Explain Why the Saints Are a Different Team Under Darren Rizzi
The New Orleans Saints have long been recognized for their dynamic roster and passionate fan base, but in recent years, there’s been a notable shift in the team’s identity. According to versatile playmaker Taysom Hill and team owner Gayle Benson, much of this transformation can be credited to the influence of Darren Rizzi, the Saints’ Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator.
Rizzi’s Impact on the Saints’ Culture
Darren Rizzi joined the Saints in 2019 with a reputation as one of the NFL’s top special teams coaches. Known for his detail-oriented approach and high-energy leadership, Rizzi quickly made an impression on the team. His ability to instill discipline and accountability has rippled through the entire organization, creating a more unified and focused squad.
Taysom Hill, a multi-faceted offensive and special teams weapon, has experienced Rizzi’s influence firsthand. “Coach Rizzi brings a level of intensity and preparation that’s unmatched,” Hill shared in a recent interview. “Whether it’s in meetings, practices, or game day situations, he demands excellence. That mindset has really helped us become a more complete team.”
A Holistic Approach to Team Development
Under Rizzi, the Saints have redefined their approach to special teams, turning it into a game-changing unit rather than an afterthought. Players like Hill, Blake Gillikin, and J.T. Gray have thrived under his guidance, making the Saints a force to reckon with in the often-overlooked third phase of the game. Rizzi’s innovative schemes have not only improved field position battles but also fostered a next-man-up mentality throughout the roster.
“Special teams are a reflection of a team’s depth and heart,” Rizzi explained during a recent press conference. “It’s where players who might not see the spotlight on offense or defense can shine. Our focus has been on creating a system where everyone knows their role and executes it to perfection.”
Ownership’s Endorsement of Rizzi’s Leadership
Saints owner Gayle Benson has also been vocal about Rizzi’s contributions. Known for her hands-on approach to team management, Benson appreciates the cultural shift Rizzi has brought to the franchise. “Darren’s passion and dedication to the Saints are evident every day,” she said. “His leadership has created an environment where every player feels valued, and that’s translated into better performances on the field.”
Benson emphasized that the Saints’ success isn’t just about talent but about fostering a culture of trust and teamwork. “Rizzi’s work ethic is contagious. The players feed off his energy, and it’s helped the entire organization step up to a new level,” she added.
The Saints’ Future Under Rizzi’s Influence
While Head Coach Dennis Allen remains at the helm, Rizzi’s role as a transformative figure within the Saints cannot be understated. His ability to inspire and lead has positioned the team as a resilient contender in the NFC South, even amidst challenges like injuries and tough losses.
For Hill and the rest of the team, Rizzi’s influence represents a foundation upon which they can build long-term success. “Coach Rizzi reminds us every day that the details matter,” Hill said. “That’s the difference between winning and losing in this league, and that’s why we’re a different team now.”
With Rizzi continuing to guide the Saints’ special teams and inspire the locker room, fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the team’s trajectory. As Gayle Benson aptly put it, “Darren is helping us not just win games but redefine what it means to be a Saint.”
NFL
BREAKING News: Dolphins have reportedly made final decision on Tyreek Hill and potential trade to Chiefs or Saints
BREAKING News: Dolphins have reportedly made final decision on Tyreek Hill and potential trade to Chiefs or Saints
The Miami Dolphins have been involved in many rumors about Tyreek Hill’s future with Chiefs and Steelers as possible suitors.
The Miami Dolphins have decided that, for now, they are not going to trade Tyreek Hill. According to a report from Adam Schefter, the wide receiver will not be moved and, despite the rumors, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Pittsburgh Steelers are not on the list of supposed interested teams.
There’s been a lot of Tyreek Hill chatter and a lot of Tyreek Hill speculation. I know it will keep going on and on. Let’s not let facts interfere with a good story. The facts are, the Dolphins haven’t gotten any calls about Tyreek Hill. Zero. The facts are that the Dolphins are not looking to deal Tyreek Hill.”
After the Dolphins were blown out in Indianapolis, and with the frustration Hill has expressed toward the team since last season, many rumors suggested that the wide receiver could be traded to acquire draft capital. Obviously, his talent could turn any team into a Super Bowl contender, but it’s also a fact that the player is currently facing serious off-the-field legal issues.
Is Tyreek Hill going to be traded?
No. Tyreek Hill will not be traded by the Miami Dolphins for now. However, Schefter mentioned that, as often happens, if the losses keep piling up, the story could change soon.
Now, look, we’re not idiots. We understand the Dolphins lost last week in an embarrassing fashion. They think they’re gonna turn it around. But if they don’t, obviously, there may be calls for Tyreek Hill as the trade deadline approaches in late October, early November. But as of today, today, zero, zero discussion about a Tyreek Hill trade, today. Could that change? Sure, absolutely. When teams lose, that changes the conversation and things are always fluid. But Tyreek Hill today? Nothing.”
NFL
SHOCKING: Fans react as Aaron Rodgers beats Jets in Steelers debut despite Justin Fields’ impressive performance
SHOCKING: Fans react as Aaron Rodgers beats Jets in Steelers debut despite Justin Fields’ impressive performance
The New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers delivered one of the best games of Week 1 of the NFL season. The battle between Justin Fields and Aaron Rodgers was great, and it left fans in awe.
No one thought the New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers would deliver the first shootout of the NFL season but here we are! Justin Fields guided the Jets to a great offensive game, but Aaron Rodgers didn’t fall behind as he had a stellar game of his own. Fans are reacting after what was a surprisingly great game.
After a rollercoaster of a game, it’s normal that fans are going into complete ecstasy -and agony- on social media. User Tone Digs simply said, “Having Aaron Rodgers as your QB is so cool.” Others joke around saying, “Aaron Rodgers once again responsible for another Jets loss,” only this time it’s because Rodgers delivered a masterpiece against his former team, where he struggled.
Comparing Rodgers’ game to what he did, or failed to do with the Jets last season was absolutely imperative to happen. That’s how social media works. “Aaron Rodgers with a better drive than he ever had with the Jets, followed by Justin Fields with a better throw than he ever had with the Steelers,” user Bart Winkler posted.
Justin Fields did everything he could to win the game for the Jets
Fields was also facing his former team. He has been doubted most of his NFL career, so watching him play to this high level of football made fans happy. “Love seeing Justin Fields balling out,” Dave tweeted. Others are defending Fields, saying he finally has a coaching staff that trusts him. “Justin Fields with a coach that doesn’t treat him like s— >>>>.“
Even NFL legend Richard Sherman was in awe of Fields’ performance. “Justin Fields!!! Looks like an Entirely different player!Poised, accurate, and decisive. Using his legs when it’s there and finding the open guy consistently. Remarkable.“
The QBs gave it all on the field
The box score alone doesn’t do justice on what the quarterbacks did. And that’s saying something as the box score stats are really impressive on both sides. Aaron Rodgers completed 22/30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns. He also guided a drive all the way for Chris Boswell to kick a 60-yard field goal to take the lead.
Fields’ impact has to be measured differently, given the nature of his dual-threat ability. Fields had 266 total yards and also three touchdowns. He scored two using his legs and one pass to Ohio State product Garrett Wilson.
NFL
NFL News: Aaron Rodgers sends clear and emotional message to Mike Tomlin and Steelers after epic win in Week 1 against Justin Fields and Jets
NFL News: Aaron Rodgers sends clear and emotional message to Mike Tomlin and Steelers after epic win in Week 1 against Justin Fields and Jets
Aaron Rodgers was on the verge of tears after the Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off an incredible victory against the New York Jets.
Aaron Rodgers had a spectacular debut with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He threw for 244 yards, 4 touchdowns, and led an epic 34-32 victory against the New York Jets. During a postgame interview with CBS, the veteran quarterback appeared visibly emotional.
“I love these guys. I love the organization. I love them taking a chance on bringing me in and and believing in me. Give me the opportunity to be out here with my guys. There’s no greater feeling than being on the field and being able to compete. That’s what I was thinking about all those days in the offseason. Opportunities like this. I didn’t think it will be against my former team. I’m really proud of our guys making clutch plays down the stretch.”
Despite being 41 years old, Rodgers proved he can turn the Steelers into Super Bowl contenders. However, the big challenge for Mike Tomlin will be improving a defense that was overwhelmed by the Jets’ running game.
Did the Steelers win today against the Jets?
Yes. The Pittsburgh Steelers won their first game of the 2025 season on the road against the New York Jets. It was a thrilling matchup that was decided in the final seconds with a 60-yard field goal by Chris Boswell with just over a minute left on the clock.
Then, when Justin Fields and the Jets were attempting a late winning drive, Jalen Ramsey made a crucial tackle on fourth down to secure the victory. Two of the stars who arrived in the offseason, Rodgers and Ramsey, shut the door in New York.
Four Saints veterans named the best players to wear their jersey numbers
The New Orleans Saints have a lot of questions surrounding their roster as they enter the 2025 season, but there are a handful of veterans who have proven to still be among the best in the NFL.
Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports recently released a list of the top players in the league at every jersey number from 0-99. There were four Saints players included: Alvin Kamara for No. 41, Demario Davis for No. 56, Juwan Johnson for No. 83 and Carl Granderson for No. 96.
Kamara doesn’t have very much competition for being representative of the No. 41 jersey. Other players there include Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Ko Kieft and Dallas Cowboys rookie defender Donovan Ezeiruaku. Even if there were other stars, it would be hard to finish ahead of Kamara, who could once again be one of the NFL’s best running backs this season.
The other players at No. 56 that stand out other than Davis are Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith and Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson, both of whom are very good at football. Davis has finished with at least 100 tackles each year since coming to New Orleans and has earned the NFL’s respect as one of the best linebackers in the sport.
Johnson is still waiting for his true breakout campaign at tight end for the Saints, but he has shown flashes. Still, he is the right choice for No. 83, which is mostly several unproven tight ends and wide receivers.
There are a couple of other defensive linemen who share No. 96 with Granderson, but the only one with a real argument would maybe be New York Jets star Leonard Taylor III. Granderson will need to bring his sack numbers back up in 2025, but he still probably the right choice.
INCOMING: Kellen Moore Embarks On New Era For New Orleans Saints With Hopes Of Resurrecting Glory Day
Kellen Moore embarks on new era for New Orleans Saints with hopes of resurrecting glory days
The New Orleans Saints find themselves standing at the crossroads of hope and opportunity as they gear up for the 2024 season, following a disappointing campaign that concluded with a 5-12 record. The franchise has embraced the winds of change with the hiring of head coach Kellen Moore, signaling a commitment to rejuvenation. This offseason has been bustling with transformative moves that may well pave the way for a more promising future.
The current roster reflects a thoughtful blend of experienced veterans and eager newcomers, providing a strong foundation for growth. Talented additions like Tyler Shough and Kelvin Banks Jr. inject youthful dynamism into the squad, creating an environment ripe for progress. Despite the setbacks of the previous season, the NFC South remains relatively accessible, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the only team boasting a winning record at 10-7. This landscape opens a window of opportunity for the Saints to reestablish their competitive edge in the division.
With an emphasis on health and stability, the Saints stand a genuine chance to approach .500 this season. The progress of key players, particularly quarterbacks like Shough and Spencer Rattler, will be vital as they aim to bridge the competitive gap with Tampa Bay.
A Need for Defensive Reinforcements
To enhance their prospects further, strengthening the defense—particularly the secondary—should be a priority. The cornerback position has emerged as a critical area for improvement, leading to speculation surrounding the potential signing of veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore. His addition could inject both talent and leadership into a young and developing defense.
Gilmore, a two-time All-Pro and the 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has shown signs of decline recently but remains a force to be reckoned with. In his last season with the Minnesota Vikings, he recorded nine pass breakups, 49 tackles, and one interception, showcasing his enduring capability. His extensive experience in high-stakes situations, underscored by a Super Bowl victory and five Pro Bowl selections, positions him as a significant asset for any franchise.
The Right Fit for a New Scheme
Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, the Saints will implement a hybrid defensive scheme mirroring the system in which Gilmore thrived during his time with the New England Patriots. This familiarity could facilitate a seamless transition for Gilmore, allowing him to maximize his contribution to the field.
Gilmore has also expressed a keen interest in mentoring younger players, which makes him an attractive candidate for a cornerback room eager for guidance. His presence would not only enhance the Saints’ defensive unit but also nurture the development of emerging talents like Alontae Taylor, ideally positioned for a slot role.
Bringing a player of Gilmore’s pedigree on board would markedly elevate the Saints’ defensive prowess, addressing one of the most vulnerable positions on the roster. As the team looks ahead to the upcoming season, the potential acquisition of a seasoned cornerback like Gilmore could serve as the crucial missing piece in their quest for supremacy within the NFC South. United by veteran experience and youthful zeal, the Saints are laying the groundwork for a season filled with potential and aspirations for greatness.
New Orleans Saints5 days agoSaints are wasting Spencer Rattler’s surprising start to the season
- New Orleans Saints5 days ago
Saints legend Drew Brees offers praise for Spencer Rattler as the team’s starting QB
- New Orleans Saints1 week ago
Saints set to sign new lease to stay in the Superdome. Here’s a look inside the deal.
