METAIRIE, La. — Following a disappointing season-ending loss to Tampa Bay, interim coach Darren Rizzi of the New Orleans Saints acknowledges that significant changes are necessary this offseason. The Saints concluded the regular season with a dismal 5-12 record, marking their worst performance in almost 20 years. Nevertheless, Rizzi makes a strong case for his continuation as head coach, advocating for the removal of the “interim” designation from his position.
“I can confidently state that I am a capable leader,” Rizzi declared, having stepped in after the dismissal of Dennis Allen. Under Rizzi’s leadership, New Orleans managed a 3-5 record in the last half of the season. “Leadership, communication, and relationships are three critical aspects of coaching,” he added, emphasizing his strengths in these areas.
Rizzi mentioned that while the Saints must adhere to NFL regulations regarding their head coach selection, which includes interviewing minority candidates, he anticipates participating in the interview process for the permanent position next week. In the meantime, he will remain engaged with the team to assist in conducting evaluations of the current players and coaching staff.
Taking over a team that was severely impacted by injuries and suffering from a seven-game losing streak, Rizzi remarked, “Let’s be honest, it wasn’t a blank canvas when I took over. I made decisions based on what I believed was best for the conditions at hand. Once you are entrenched in the middle of a journey, altering the course can be challenging. However, pressing the reset button presents numerous new opportunities.”
Several key players on the Saints roster, including running back Alvin Kamara, defensive leader Cameron Jordan, and quarterback Derek Carr, expressed their support for Rizzi as a viable candidate for the permanent coaching role. Kamara stated, “Rizzi is capable and not afraid to make necessary changes. He holds people accountable, including himself. He’s genuine. If I had a vote, I would support Rizzi.”
As the team looks to identify potential coaching candidates, they may have to wait several weeks before interviewing top assistants from playoff teams. Meanwhile, decisions regarding veteran players, particularly Carr and Jordan, loom large as their futures with the organization become uncertain.
Cameron Jordan, who just completed his 14th season in the NFL, has one year remaining on his contract, with a base salary of $12.5 million for next year. Meanwhile, Derek Carr is set to receive a base salary of $30 million next season after finishing with a 5-5 record as a starter but missing seven games due to injury. Jordan had a strong finish to the season after Rizzi shifted him back to his traditional edge rushing position, achieving four sacks and seven tackles for loss in the last eight games. He expressed his desire to continue playing next season, ideally still with New Orleans.
“If you evaluate Jordan’s performance in the second half of the year, he certainly deserves another opportunity here,” Rizzi commented.
Carr also expressed his eagerness to stay with the team, referring to his discussions with general manager Mickey Loomis and owner Gayle Benson as “super positive.” He noted that the Saints’ early-season offensive performance, which included high-scoring victories, showcased their potential had they not faced an avalanche of injuries. By season’s end, the team was missing several key contributors.
Kamara, who accumulated 950 rushing yards before a groin injury sidelined him, was hopeful of achieving his first 1,000-yard rushing season. “I wanted to reach that mark, but I’ve never focused solely on records because it keeps me grounded,” he stated. Having signed a lucrative two-year extension in October, Kamara remains committed to revitalizing the team’s fortunes and ending their four-year playoff drought. “I could have left, but I want to help restore our success. Just because times are tough doesn’t mean I’m going to walk away. I’m here for the rebuilding,” he affirmed.
