A New Chapter for the Saints: Kellen Moore Takes the Helm
The New Orleans Saints made a significant move on Tuesday by hiring Kellen Moore, the former offensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles, as their new head coach. This decision marks a fresh chapter for the franchise, which has been searching for the right person to lead the team to new heights. While the franchise’s two most crucial hires—the offensive and defensive coordinators—are still pending, the appointment of Moore brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in offensive play-calling and game management. Moore’s reputation as a strategic mind and his ability to develop and utilize talent will be instrumental in shaping the future of the Saints.
The Importance of Key Hires
As the Saints prepare to build their coaching staff around Moore, the roles of offensive and defensive coordinator remain open. These positions are crucial because they will directly influence the team’s performance on the field. The offensive coordinator will work closely with Moore to develop strategies and ensure the team’s offensive unit operates at its peak. Similarly, the defensive coordinator will be tasked with fortifying the defense, a key area for improvement. The success of these hires could determine the overall trajectory of the team under Moore’s leadership. The pressure is on to find candidates who not only have the necessary experience but also align with Moore’s vision and philosophy for the team.
Koger Declines Interview Opportunity
In a surprising turn of events, Falcons tight ends coach Kevin Koger has decided not to interview for a position with the Saints. According to Jonathan Jones of CBSSports.com, Koger was invited to discuss the job but ultimately declined. This decision is particularly interesting given Koger’s recent experience in the 2025 cycle, where he interviewed for offensive coordinator positions with both the Cleveland Browns and the Dallas Cowboys. Koger’s background is impressive, with a robust coaching career spanning various levels of football, including high school, college, and the NFL.
Koger’s Journey in Coaching
Koger’s journey in coaching is a testament to his dedication and expertise. After playing tight end at the University of Michigan from 2008 to 2011, he began his coaching career in 2012. His early years included a year at the high-school level and six years at various college programs, including Michigan, Tennessee, and Eastern Kentucky. Koger then transitioned to the NFL, spending two seasons with the Green Bay Packers as an offensive quality-control coach. He later joined the Los Angeles Chargers as tight ends coach, where he worked for three years. In 2024, Koger moved to the Atlanta Falcons, where he currently serves as the tight ends coach. His extensive experience and success at different levels make him a valuable asset to any coaching staff.
Overlapping with Moore
Koger and Moore share a professional history that adds an intriguing layer to this story. They worked together in 2023 with the Los Angeles Chargers, where Moore served as the offensive coordinator. This overlap suggests a familiarity and potential synergy between the two, which could have been beneficial for the Saints. Given Moore’s recent appointment as head coach, it is natural to speculate that Koger might have been a strong candidate for the offensive coordinator role. However, Koger’s decision to decline the interview raises questions about his future plans and the reasons behind his choice.
Unpacking Koger’s Decision
The reasons behind Koger’s decision to decline the interview with the Saints are not entirely clear. A promotion is generally considered a positive step in any career, and the opportunity to join a new coaching staff under a respected head coach like Kellen Moore would seem to be an attractive prospect. Moreover, Koger’s willingness to interview with the Cowboys, a team that faces significant challenges and uncertainty, adds another layer of complexity to his decision. It is possible that Koger has specific career goals or personal considerations that influenced his choice. Despite the mystery, his decision highlights the complex nature of coaching and the personal factors that often play a significant role in career moves. As the Saints continue their search for the right candidates, the focus remains on building a strong, cohesive staff that can lead the team to success.
