Kellen Moore is set to stay in New Orleans, but in a new role. The Philadelphia Eagles' offensive coordinator, fresh off a Super Bowl LIX victory at the Caesars Superdome, is finalizing a deal to become the next head coach of the New Orleans Saints, according to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo.
Saints general manager Mickey Loomis has already informed other coaching candidates of Moore’s hiring, signaling the franchise’s commitment to the 35-year-old play-caller. This will mark Moore’s first head coaching job in the NFL, following a rapid rise through the coaching ranks.
Journey
His journey has been a whirlwind—after spending 2018-2022 with the Dallas Cowboys (four years as OC), he joined the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023 before taking over the Eagles' offense in 2024. Under his leadership, Philadelphia ranked in the top eight for both total yards and points scored, with running back Saquon Barkley becoming just the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a season.
Now, Moore faces the challenge of reviving a Saints franchise that has missed the playoffs since 2021 and struggled to a 5-12 record last season, leading to the dismissal of Dennis Allen.
Meanwhile, the Eagles must prepare for their fourth offensive coordinator in as many seasons as they aim to defend their Super Bowl title in 2025.
Jalen Hurts' Efficiency Shines Despite Lower Yardage
Jalen Hurts' production in 2024 may not have been as flashy as in previous seasons, but his efficiency hit new heights. While his 193.5 passing yards per game marked his lowest output since becoming the Philadelphia Eagles’ full-time starter, he set career bests in completion percentage (68.7%) and passer rating (103.7). Additionally, he ranked 10th in QBR (65.6), improving from his 12th-place finish (60.9) in 2023. Hurts' numbers indicate that while his yardage dipped, his ability to make smart, effective plays remained strong.
Kellen Moore’s Move to Philadelphia
Kellen Moore’s coaching trajectory has been anything but steady, with three different jobs in as many seasons. His brief stint with the Los Angeles Chargers didn’t necessarily bolster his reputation, but his decision to join the Eagles as their offensive coordinator appears to be a savvy career move. Under Nick Sirianni, Moore has the opportunity to refine his offensive strategies and work with an established, dynamic quarterback in Hurts.
Saints Face Pivotal Offseason Decisions
For New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis, the biggest decision this offseason may not be hiring a new head coach but rather handling the team’s financial situation and quarterback dilemma. With quarterback Derek Carr carrying a massive $51.5 million cap hit in 2025—the fourth-highest in the NFL—the Saints are in a tough spot. New Orleans may attempt to restructure Carr’s contract to reduce short-term financial strain, but releasing him after June 1 could free up $30 million in cap space.
A Franchise in Need of a Reset
The Saints have struggled to regain their footing since Drew Brees retired in March 2021, failing to make the playoffs in the years since. The team’s efforts to remain competitive have left them in a financial bind, with New Orleans projected to be over $50.3 million above the salary cap, per Spotrac. Seven of the team’s 11 largest cap hits belong to players aged 30 or older, highlighting the challenges of an aging roster with limited upside.
According to ESPN’s Katherine Terrell, six players over the age of 30—Demario Davis (35), Cameron Jordan (35), Taysom Hill (34), Derek Carr (33), Tyrann Mathieu (32), and Ryan Ramczyk (30)—account for $140 million of the team’s 2025 salary cap, nearly 40% of the projected $340 million payroll. Given the combination of age, injuries, and declining production, Loomis must decide whether to restructure contracts to stay competitive or start a full-scale rebuild.
Two Possible Paths for New Orleans
Loomis essentially has two choices. He can attempt to restructure deals and make strategic roster cuts to stay under the cap, though this would leave the Saints with minimal room for external additions. Alternatively, he could opt for a complete rebuild, moving on from high-priced veterans now to reset the financial outlook for 2026 and beyond.
The Saints' fanbase has grown frustrated with the team’s lack of direction. The goodwill from the Brees era has faded, and Loomis' talent evaluation has been called into question as former Saints players like Trey Hendrickson and Zack Baun have thrived elsewhere.
The Key Date: March 12
The Saints' long-term vision will become clearer by mid-March. Derek Carr’s $30 million salary for 2025 becomes fully guaranteed on the third day of the NFL league year, which begins on March 12. If New Orleans retains Carr, it signals a continued push to compete for the NFC South title. If they decide to part ways, it could mark the beginning of a larger roster overhaul.
With major financial and roster decisions looming, the Saints are at a crossroads, and the choices made this offseason will shape the franchise’s trajectory for years to come.