There’s a really good chance that both of the New Orleans Saints’ co-defensive coordinators end up working for division rivals. Ryan Nielsen already left town for the Atlanta Falcons’ job, and the Carolina Panthers may turn to Kris Richard after missing out on Vic Fangio (who is joining the Miami Dolphins, where Richard also interviewed). Carolina requested an interview with Richard prior to naming Frank Reich their head coach and he would have more advancement opportunities with the Panthers than with the Saints.
Even if the Saints named Richard their full-time defensive coordinator, head coach Dennis Allen still calls plays for that side of the ball, but Richard would enjoy more autonomy with another team. The Panthers could offer him the headset and a talented roster to work with. He’s had success in the past as a coordinator with the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks and once got looks as a head coach in his own right. Picking up play-calling duties again would help to restore his profile around the league.
