The New Orleans Saints have officially hired former Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley as their new defensive coordinator, marking a pivotal step in reshaping the team’s coaching staff. Staley, who served as the San Francisco 49ers‘ assistant head coach during the 2024 season, reunites with rookie head coach Kellen Moorein New Orleans.
The two previously worked together in 2023 when Moore was the Chargers’ offensive coordinator. Despite their challenges in Los Angeles, the duo is optimistic about breathing new life into a Saints team that has missed the playoffs since 2020.
Staley brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams in 2020, where his unit was among the NFL’s best. His tenure as the Chargers’ head coach was marked by mixed results, including a 24-24 record and one playoff appearance. However, his defensive acumen remains highly respected across the league.
The Saints, who ranked 19th in points allowed and 30th in yards last season, are counting on Staley to revamp a struggling defense and restore its former dominance. This hire also underscores the Saints’ commitment to building a dynamic coaching staff, as Moore has also added Doug Nussmeier as offensive coordinator and promoted Phil Galiano to special teams coordinator.
The Saints’ new leadership team represents a mix of experience and innovation. Moore, Staley, and their assembled staff aim to instill a culture of adaptability and accountability. Staley’s familiarity with Moore’s system and his ability to develop defensive talent could be the catalyst New Orleans needs to return to postseason contention. Another notable addition isT.J. Paganetti, a rising talent who follows Moore from the Philadelphia Eagles, where he worked on offensive line development and the run game.
In addition to this significant hire, the Saints have also brought in Ted Rath as the director of sports science. Rath, known for his innovative approach to sports performance, will oversee the scientific methodologies used by coaches and trainers to optimize player health and performance. Rath most recently served as the Philadelphia Eagles’ director of sports performance from 2020 to 2023, earning a reputation for his attention to detail and player-first focus.
With a strong support staff in place and a clear focus on player development, the Saints are poised to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season with renewed vigor.
