The search for the next New Orleans Saints head coach is coming to a close, as the team has interviewed several worthy and interesting candidates. As of this posting, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn appears to be the frontrunner. Glenn did a remarkable job coaching a banged-up unit (yesterday’s season-ending loss notwithstanding) and is familiar with the organization, having coached defensive backs from 2016 to 2020.
With Glenn’s Lions now out of the playoffs, the head coaching candidate should land a job in the coming days. Recent reports indicated that he wants to land with the New York Jets, which could leave the Saints alone at the altar. Fortunately, the team has a Plan B, as General Manager Mickey Loomis and company are reportedly interested in former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy. Chances are, one of these two will lead the team in 2025, and now it’s time to project when this decision will be made.
Saints Could Hire Their Next Head Coach This Week
Following Sunday’s slate of games, only four teams will still be alive in the race for the Super Bowl. This means the vast majority of head coaching candidates, including Aaron Glenn, won’t have to plan for upcoming games. While there is no fixed deadline for teams to hire coaches, it generally happens in the week leading up to the AFC and NFC Championship Games.
The New England Patriots already hired Mike Vrabel, but all the other vacant head coaching opportunities are still available. Chances are, those will start filling up in the coming days, and Glenn should be one of the hottest commodities on the market. While his defense struggled to stop second-overall pick Jayden Daniels, one poor performance against a rising superstar shouldn’t damage his odds at getting a job.
Look for the Saints to try to make Aaron Glenn their next head coach in the coming days. If he says yes, the Saints search is over. However, if he says no, don’t be surprised if the team makes an aggressive offer for McCarthy’s services. Either way, New Orleans should have their next head coach by the end of the week.
Main Photo: Kevin Jairaj – USA Today Sports
