The New Orleans Saints are undergoing significant coaching staff changes as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. Notably, interim head coach Darren Rizzi has departed the organization, leaving a vacancy in the special teams unit. Rizzi, who stepped in as interim head coach following Dennis Allen’s departure, has joined the Denver Broncos as their special teams coordinator under head coach Sean Payton. In a move reflecting their longstanding professional relationship, Rizzi has brought along Marwan Maalouf, a former Saints assistant, to serve as his assistant special teams coordinator in Denver.
In response to these departures, the Saints have promoted Phil Galiano to the position of special teams coordinator. Galiano has been with the Saints since 2019, initially serving as the assistant special teams coordinator under Rizzi. His promotion marks the first significant staff decision by newly appointed head coach Kellen Moore, who aims to maintain continuity within the special teams unit.
Kellen Moore, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, was announced as the Saints’ head coach on February 11, 2025. Moore’s offensive acumen is well-regarded, and he is expected to revitalize the Saints’ offensive strategies.
To bolster the defensive side, the Saints have hired Brandon Staley as their new defensive coordinator. Staley, who served as the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers from 2021 to 2023 and spent the 2024 season as an assistant head coach with the San Francisco 49ers, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His prior collaboration with Moore during their tenure with the Chargers is anticipated to foster a cohesive coaching environment.
Additionally, the Saints have recruited T.J. Paganetti from the Philadelphia Eagles to join Moore’s staff. Paganetti, who served as the Eagles’ run game specialist and assistant offensive line coach, was instrumental in developing one of the league’s most formidable rushing attacks during the 2024 season. His expertise is expected to enhance the Saints’ ground game and offensive line performance.
These strategic coaching changes reflect the Saints’ commitment to building a robust and dynamic coaching team as they look to improve upon their previous season’s performance. The integration of experienced coaches like Galiano, Staley, and Paganetti under Moore’s leadership aims to position the Saints as strong contenders in the upcoming season.
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