Saints Coaching Search Intensifies as Team Schedules Key Interviews, Including Mike McCarthy

The New Orleans Saints have been relatively quiet in their head coaching search so far, but things are beginning to pick up. On Monday, reports confirmed that the team is set to host in-person interviews with New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka and Baltimore Ravens assistant head coach Anthony Weaver later this week. As the process gains momentum, another significant development has emerged—the Saints are preparing for their first meeting with former Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, according to insider Nick Underhill.

While the exact timing of McCarthy’s interview remains uncertain due to an impending snowstorm, it is expected to take place sometime this week. Depending on the availability of Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and his scheduled meeting with the New York Jets on Tuesday, the Saints could sit down with McCarthy as early as Wednesday.

McCarthy’s Coaching Background and the Saints’ Interest

Mike McCarthy has been one of the most prominent names in coaching circles since parting ways with the Dallas Cowboys. When he and the Cowboys failed to reach an agreement on a contract extension, the Saints quickly emerged as one of the top contenders to land the experienced coach. However, New Orleans was not alone in its pursuit of McCarthy, as the Chicago Bears also showed significant interest and even conducted meetings with him.

Initially, the Bears were considered a strong landing spot for McCarthy, but they ultimately decided to go in a different direction by hiring Ben Johnson, the former offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, as their new head coach. With Chicago out of the picture, McCarthy’s potential path to New Orleans has become much clearer.

Despite this opening, McCarthy’s chances of securing the Saints’ job may hinge on the team’s ability to meet with Aaron Glenn this week. Glenn, who previously played for the Saints and later served as their defensive backs coach, is highly regarded within the organization. If Glenn remains a viable candidate and is available for an interview as planned, New Orleans could face a difficult decision regarding which direction they want to take in their coaching search.

Evaluating Mike Kafka and Anthony Weaver

While much of the attention is on McCarthy, the Saints’ scheduled interviews with Mike Kafka and Anthony Weaver should not be overlooked. Kafka, who has been instrumental in developing Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, is considered one of the brightest young offensive minds in the league. His ability to craft creative passing schemes and maximize quarterback play has put him on the radar for multiple coaching vacancies.

Weaver, on the other hand, has built a strong reputation as a defensive strategist. As the assistant head coach for the Ravens, he has played a significant role in shaping one of the league’s top defenses. His experience in player development and defensive game-planning makes him an intriguing candidate, especially for a team like the Saints, who have traditionally leaned on their defense to stay competitive.

What This Means for the Saints’ Coaching Search

New Orleans appears to be keeping all options open as they navigate the coaching hiring process. By casting a wide net that includes experienced leaders like McCarthy, innovative young minds like Kafka, and defensive experts like Weaver, the Saints are ensuring they thoroughly evaluate their options before making a final decision.

If McCarthy is indeed the frontrunner, his track record will likely be a major selling point. During his time in Green Bay, he led the Packers to a Super Bowl victory and consistently kept them in playoff contention. His offensive philosophy, combined with his experience in handling high-pressure situations, could be appealing to the Saints as they look to return to postseason relevance.

However, there are concerns about McCarthy’s recent tenure with the Cowboys. Despite regular-season success, his inability to lead Dallas deep into the playoffs became a point of criticism. The Saints will need to determine whether McCarthy’s experience outweighs the questions surrounding his playoff performances.

On the other hand, if the Saints choose to go in a different direction, someone like Aaron Glenn could emerge as a strong candidate. Given his previous connection with the organization, Glenn already has an understanding of the team’s culture and defensive philosophy. If the Saints prioritize continuity and defensive stability, Glenn might be an ideal choice.

Looking Ahead

With key interviews scheduled and the coaching search intensifying, the next few days will be crucial for the Saints. The team’s leadership will need to weigh their options carefully and decide whether they prefer an established coach like McCarthy, a young offensive innovator like Kafka, or a defensive-minded leader like Weaver or Glenn.

Ultimately, the decision will come down to which candidate best aligns with the team’s vision for the future. If McCarthy’s interview goes well and Glenn remains unavailable, there’s a strong possibility that McCarthy could be the next head coach of the New Orleans Saints. However, with multiple candidates still in play, nothing is set in stone just yet.

As the Saints continue their search, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see which direction the team chooses. With a roster that still possesses plenty of talent, the right coaching hire could help New Orleans return to playoff contention in the near future.