Tyson’s Top Three Head Coaching Candidates for Saints
The New Orleans Saints are at a crossroads, facing what is arguably one of the most pivotal decisions in franchise history. With a potential rebuild on the horizon and the team grappling with a challenging salary cap situation, this coaching hire isn’t just about finding a leader; it’s about setting the foundation for the future. The Saints need a new voice, someone who can develop a younger, more dynamic roster and steer the team back to their winning ways, much like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ resurgence in recent years. As a lifelong Saints fan, I’ve spent countless hours analyzing potential candidates, weighing their track records, philosophies, and how they align with the team’s culture and goals. In this article, I’ll dive into my top three choices for the Saints' following head coach candidates who have the vision, leadership, and strategic prowess to lead the black and gold back to glory.
Ben Johnson
One candidate who stands out above the rest is Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Johnson has quickly established himself as one of the most innovative minds in football, turning a previously struggling Detroit offense into one of the league’s most dynamic units. His work with Jared Goff has been impressive, revitalizing the quarterback’s career and showcasing his ability to adapt schemes to maximize a player’s strengths. Under Johnson’s guidance, Goff has transitioned from being seen as a stopgap option to one of the NFL's most efficient passers, a testament to Johnson’s talent as a strategist and teacher. However, luring Johnson won’t be easy. He’s likely to be at the top of every team’s coaching wishlist this offseason, and the Saints may have a tough time competing with more attractive opportunities. New Orleans’ current cap constraints, potential roster rebuild, and lack of a clear-cut quarterback solution make it a less appealing destination than teams with more stable foundations or premium draft capital. Despite these challenges, Johnson’s forward-thinking approach and knack for developing talent make him the kind of transformative hire worth pursuing aggressively. The Saints must make a compelling case to secure him as their next head coach.
Brian Flores
Another strong candidate for the Saints' head coaching role is Brian Flores, currently serving as the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. Flores has earned widespread acclaim for his ability to craft aggressive and exotic defensive schemes that keep opposing offenses off balance. In Minnesota, he has transformed the Vikings' defense into a unit known for its creativity and toughness, which aligns perfectly with the Saints’ defensive identity. Flores also brings valuable head coaching experience from his time with the Miami Dolphins, where he led a remarkable turnaround by instilling discipline, accountability, and a winning culture. Notably, the Saints interviewed Flores for their head coaching vacancy in 2022, signaling the team’s previous interest in his leadership and approach. Additionally, former players have publicly vouched for Flores’ ability to inspire and lead a locker room, praising his professionalism and unwavering commitment to team success. With a proven track record of elevating defenses and guiding teams through transitions, Flores is a compelling option for New Orleans as they navigate a critical juncture in franchise history.
Mike Vrabel
The final candidate to consider is Mike Vrabel, who recently took on a role as a senior assistant with the Cleveland Browns after his successful tenure as the head coach of the Tennessee Titans. Known for his exceptional ability to build and sustain a winning culture, Vrabel has earned widespread respect across the NFL for his leadership and strategic acumen. His teams consistently embody toughness, discipline, and resilience, qualities the Saints desperately need as they navigate a challenging rebuild. Despite stepping into an assistant role this season, Vrabel remains one of the most respected figures in the league and will undoubtedly be a hot commodity if he becomes available for a head coaching position. His experience turning the Titans into consistent playoff contenders, often overcoming roster limitations, highlights his ability to maximize talent and create a competitive edge. For the Saints, landing a coach of Vrabel’s caliber would require overcoming fierce competition. Still, his proven track record of culture-building and success makes him an ideal candidate to guide the franchise through its pivotal moment in history.
As the Saints face one of the most pivotal decisions in franchise history, choosing their next head coach will undoubtedly shape the team’s future. Ben Johnson, Brian Flores, and Mike Vrabel represent three of the best options available, each bringing unique qualities that could address the team’s challenges and set them on a path to success. That said, as much as I’d love to see Johnson or Vrabel in New Orleans, I must admit it would be a shock if the Saints managed to land either. Both are highly sought-after candidates who likely have multiple suitors with more attractive situations. Flores, however, feels like a more realistic option given his prior connection to the Saints and his proven track record of leadership and defensive prowess. From a fan perspective, these three names are on my radar. Whether Johnson’s offensive innovation, Vrabel’s culture-building expertise, or Flores’ disciplined leadership, each has the potential to breathe new life into the franchise. Now, it’s up to the Saints’ front office to make the right call and secure the right leader to guide the black and gold into a promising new chapter.
