Saints Part Ways with Dennis Allen, Appoint Rizzi as Interim Head Coach

The New Orleans Saints have parted ways with head coach Dennis Allen, the team confirmed on Monday. Assistant head coach and special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi will step in as the interim head coach. Rizzi, who has served as the Saints' special teams coordinator since 2021, will take over the team following a difficult stretch of performances.

"This decision is something that I felt we needed to make at this time," said Saints owner Gayle Benson in a statement. "I wish nothing but the best in the future for Dennis and his family. He will always be considered in the highest regard by me and everyone within our organization."

The firing comes after a narrow 23-22 defeat to the Carolina Panthers, which dropped the Saints' record to 2-7 on the season. The Saints have now lost seven consecutive games after a promising 2-0 start.

Allen, who was hired in 2022 to replace longtime head coach Sean Payton, posted an 18-25 record in 43 games as head coach. Before taking the reins in New Orleans, he had served as the team's defensive coordinator under Payton from 2015-2021.

"The organization will always be near and dear to my heart, and I am disappointed the results weren't better," Allen said in his statement. "To the Saints fans and residents of New Orleans, I want to thank you for your unwavering passion and support of the team. I realize what a privilege it is to coach a special franchise in a great city."

This marks the second time Allen has been dismissed as a head coach mid-season. Previously, he was fired by the Oakland Raiders in 2014 after starting the season 0-4. Derek Carr, the current Saints quarterback, was also with the Raiders at that time.

Under Allen's leadership, the Saints struggled to maintain consistent offensive production. The team ranks 20th in expected points added (EPA) per play since 2022, averaging 22 points per game. Throughout Allen's tenure, the Saints have had four starting quarterbacks: Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, Carr, and Spencer Rattler.

Carr, signed to a four-year, $150 million contract with $100 million fully guaranteed in 2023, has started 23 games for the Saints, posting an 11-12 record. He has thrown for 5,103 yards, 34 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Among 28 quarterbacks who have taken at least 500 snaps since 2023, Carr ranks 18th in EPA/play and success rate.

Allen becomes the third head coach hired by general manager Mickey Loomis since he joined the Saints in 2002. New Orleans has faced ongoing salary cap struggles under Loomis, leading to regular contract restructures. As of 2025, the Saints are projected to have a cap deficit of $61.5 million, according to Over the Cap.

With the NFL trade deadline approaching, reports indicate that Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore has drawn interest from other teams.