JUST IN:New Orleans Saints Prioritizing Kellen Moore, Keeping Anthony Weaver in Miami for Now
In a whirlwind of NFL coaching decisions and offseason shakeups, the New Orleans Saints are making moves to reshape their coaching staff for the 2025 season. With a determined focus on improving both their offensive and defensive units, the Saints are prioritizing Kellen Moore as their next offensive coordinator, while keeping defensive line coach Anthony Weaver in Miami for the time being.
The Search for an Offensive Mind
After parting ways with offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, the Saints found themselves in need of a fresh approach to their offense. Despite having a stable defense, the Saints’ offensive struggles in recent seasons have been a major obstacle in their quest to return to the postseason.
With quarterback Derek Carr at the helm and a mix of talent at wide receiver and running back, New Orleans believes that hiring a top-tier offensive coordinator is crucial for unlocking the potential of their offense. Kellen Moore, the former offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, emerged as a key candidate.
Moore, 35, had a highly successful tenure with the Cowboys, overseeing a high-powered offense that ranked among the best in the NFL during his time in Dallas. Under his guidance, the Cowboys’ offense was known for its explosive passing attack and ability to put up points, making them a constant playoff contender. The Saints’ front office, led by general manager Mickey Loomis and head coach Dennis Allen, recognized the need for a change and sought Moore’s expertise in revitalizing their offense.
Moore’s success with quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, as well as his ability to develop young talent and utilize a versatile playbook, makes him an appealing choice for the Saints. The hope is that Moore can help maximize Carr’s strengths, create more dynamic passing plays, and ultimately provide a balanced attack that will take the Saints from a mediocre offense to a contender in the NFC.
Sources close to the team have indicated that the Saints are in advanced discussions with Moore, and his hire is seen as a pivotal moment for the franchise’s future. While Moore is highly regarded in league circles, the Saints are not rushing the process. The team wants to ensure that the right cultural fit is found, and that Moore is committed to a long-term vision for the Saints’ offensive resurgence.
Anthony Weaver’s Continued Role in Miami
While the Saints are actively looking to bolster their offensive staff, they are also focused on strengthening their defense. However, a key figure in the Saints’ defensive plans has decided to remain in his current position.
Defensive line coach Anthony Weaver, who had been a candidate for defensive coordinator positions, including with New Orleans, will remain with the Miami Dolphins for the time being. This decision came as a result of a strong relationship between Weaver and the Dolphins’ front office, as well as the team’s belief in his ability to continue developing their defensive line.
Weaver, 44, joined the Dolphins in 2023 after spending time with the Baltimore Ravens and the Cleveland Browns. In his first season with Miami, he made an immediate impact, helping to develop a defensive line that was among the most disruptive in the league. His ability to coach up young talent like Jaelan Phillips and Zach Sieler has earned him significant praise, and it’s no surprise that teams were interested in him as a potential coordinator.
However, sources close to Weaver indicate that he is happy with his current role and feels committed to his work with the Dolphins. The Saints reportedly expressed interest in Weaver, particularly with their need for an experienced defensive mind to complement their established defensive core. However, Weaver’s decision to stay in Miami signals that the Dolphins are building something special on that side of the ball, and he is eager to see it through.
While the Saints may have hoped to lure Weaver away, his continued presence in Miami gives the Dolphins stability and continuity in their defensive coaching staff. As the NFL coaching carousel spins into the offseason, the Saints will likely pivot to other candidates to fill their defensive line coaching position, potentially looking internally or exploring other promising options.
Looking Ahead: The Saints’ Future
With Kellen Moore expected to be brought in as the offensive coordinator, the New Orleans Saints are positioning themselves to make a run in the NFC South in 2025. The hiring of Moore, coupled with a defense that remains one of the league’s strongest under Dennis Allen, gives the Saints a solid foundation to work with.
The offensive line will need to be addressed, and key players like Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas must remain healthy for Moore’s system to thrive. However, Moore’s proven track record suggests that he could be the missing piece to unlocking the potential of this roster.
On the defensive side, the Saints will likely look to replace Anthony Weaver with a coach capable of developing their defensive front further. Though the departure of Weaver to stay in Miami is a setback, the Saints are undeterred in their pursuit of improvement.
Overall, the decision to prioritize Kellen Moore and the continued commitment to the defensive staff in Miami reflect a proactive approach by the Saints’ front office. They are focused on strengthening their coaching staff to maximize the team’s talent in both phases of the game. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on New Orleans to see how these coaching moves translate into success on the field in 2025 and beyond.
