NEW ORLEANS - The New Orleans Saints didn't plan to make big changes when former quarterback Drew Brees announced his retirement almost three years ago.
They kept the coaching staff largely intact after transitioning from longtime coach Sean Payton to Dennis Allen, who was promoted from defensive coordinator to coach in 2022, with the idea that continuity was key. The Saints went to the playoffs in nine of Brees' 15 seasons, including four straight appearances before he retired.
But the Saints haven't made the playoffs since, nor have they been able to hit the same statistical highs on offense.