The Saints Find Their Head Coach in Former Eagles OC Kellen Moore
The New Orleans Saints have finally filled their head coaching vacancy with the hiring of Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.
A Lengthy Wait Ends with a Familiar Face
The Saints’ search for a new head coach has been a lengthy one, with the team being the last of seven NFL teams to fill the position. However, their wait has finally come to an end with the hiring of Moore, a key figure in the team’s past Super Bowl victory.
Moore’s Coaching Journey
Moore, 36, brings a wealth of experience to the Saints, having spent the past four seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys and the Eagles. Prior to that, he served as the Cowboys’ quarterbacks coach from 2018-2019.
As an offensive coordinator, Moore has consistently produced high-scoring units. His offenses led the league in total yards twice and ranked in the top six for scoring in three of his four seasons.
Leaving the Eagles with a Super Bowl Victory
Moore’s departure from the Eagles comes on the heels of the team’s Super Bowl LVII victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. After the game, Eagles coach Nick Sirianni jokingly pleaded with Moore to return, saying, "Let’s run this (expletive) back, Kellen." However, Moore opted to take the head coaching job with the Saints.
A Young and Talented Head Coach
At 36, Moore becomes the NFL’s youngest head coach, surpassing the previous title holder, Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald, who is 37. Moore’s youthful energy and offensive acumen are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Saints.
Challenges Ahead for the Saints
The Saints face an offseason of roster reshuffling and restructuring, with several key players facing uncertain futures. Quarterback Derek Carr, defensive end Cameron Jordan, right tackle Ryan Ramczyk, and tight end Taysom Hill are among those whose status with the team remains up in the air.
The team also faces significant salary cap challenges, with $54 million over the cap in 2025. Releasing Carr would incur a $50 million dead cap hit, adding to the Saints’ financial woes.
Eagles’ Offensive Coordinator Carousel Continues
Moore’s departure marks the fourth different offensive coordinator the Eagles have had in the past four years. After Moore and Shane Steichen (2022) landed head coaching jobs, the team parted ways with Brian Johnson (2023).
With Moore’s departure, the Eagles will now be on the lookout for their fourth offensive coordinator in as many seasons.
