New Orleans Saints Must Get Head Coach, QB, GM Right To Be Future Contenders

The New Orleans Saints, once a dominant force in the NFL under the guidance of head coach Sean Payton and the leadership of quarterback Drew Brees, find themselves at a crucial crossroads. After Payton’s departure and Brees’ retirement, the Saints are in a period of transition and must get their head coach, quarterback, and general manager (GM) decisions right if they want to be serious contenders in the future.

Head Coach: The choice of head coach is pivotal for the Saints. Sean Payton, who led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2009 and sustained success over his 15-year tenure, set a high bar. The post-Payton era has been rocky, with Dennis Allen stepping in but failing to return the team to its former glory. The Saints need a head coach who can bring in fresh ideas while respecting the culture Payton built. This leader must be capable of developing a modern offensive scheme while fostering strong team discipline and defense, which was a hallmark of the Payton years.

A successful hire could inject the right energy into a locker room that is potentially underperforming, and someone who can elevate the quarterback play would be critical. Stability at the coaching position will help the Saints build the kind of consistency that can translate into long-term success.

Quarterback: Quarterback is arguably the most important position in football, and the Saints’ search for a franchise quarterback is essential for their championship aspirations. While Derek Carr was brought in as a potential answer, questions remain about his long-term fit. The Saints need to evaluate whether Carr is the guy to lead the offense to elite levels or if they need to explore other options, whether through a future draft pick or another veteran.

With the right quarterback, the Saints can recapture their offensive rhythm and stay competitive in a division that, while competitive, remains winnable. They need a quarterback who is not just serviceable but someone who can elevate the team when it matters most, particularly in the postseason.

General Manager: Finally, the role of GM is often overlooked but is just as critical. The GM’s ability to make sound draft picks and free-agent signings can set a franchise up for sustained success. The Saints have done well to identify talent on defense, but their success in the draft and free agency has been inconsistent in recent years. They need a GM who can navigate cap space and continue to build a well-rounded roster that complements the team’s evolving needs.

In conclusion, the New Orleans Saints’ future depends on getting the right head coach, quarterback, and general manager in place. Only with the right leadership and decision-making can the Saints return to their former glory and become serious Super Bowl contenders again.