3 candidates the Saints should hire to replace Sean Payton
By John Buhler
Defensive Coordinator. Dennis Allen. 15. Pick Analysis. New Orleans Saints. 2. player. Scouting Report
If the Saints decide to promote from within, Dennis Allen is that candidate
Promoting a head coach from within is always a tricky proposition, but the Saints are best equipped of doing that than anyone. After failing in his first foray as an NFL head coach with the Silver and Black, Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has totally reinvented himself in New Orleans. He is finally starting to get serious looks to be a head coach again this offseason cycle.
Though attempting to fill Payton’s shoes will be tough-sledding for anyone, Allen knows he is not going to get a better-run organization in this second go-around. He may not be able to achieve what Payton did before him, but he knows what it takes to win prolifically in this organization. The best part is the defense will not take a step back if Allen were to take over for Payton in 2022.
However, Payton is an offensive mind, and that side of the ball could take a ding. That is where Pete Carmichael Jr. comes into play. The longtime Saints offensive coordinator will see his role expanded, as he will be the unquestioned play-caller. Surely, someone on the Saints staff is equipped to serve as defensive coordinator while Allen takes over for Payton in this transition.
This is not the sexy hire the Saints could make but it could help them maintain some continuity.