The New Orleans Saints’ decision to hire Kellen Moore as their 19th head coach signals a fresh start for an offense that struggled with inconsistency and inefficiency in 2024. Moore’s success with the Philadelphia Eagles, where his offense ranked 2nd in rushing, 5th in points, and 8th in total offense, provides an intriguing blueprint for how he might reshape the Saints’ identity.
With Saquon Barkley rushing for over 2,000 yards in Moore’s system last season, the question now becomes: How will Moore adapt his offense to the Saints’ current roster? Will he stick to a run-heavy approach or modify his scheme to maximize Derek Carr, Alvin Kamara, and Chris Olave?
Let’s explain how Moore’s offensive philosophy could impact the Saints’ personnel, play calling, and draft strategy.
- How Will Kellen Moore Transform the Saints’ Run Game?
Moore’s Eagles dominated on the ground, relying on an elite offensive line and Barkley’s explosiveness. New Orleans, however, doesn’t have a back of Barkley’s caliber or an offensive line that can consistently open up running lanes.
Key Adjustments Moore Might Make:
- Increased Role for Alvin Kamara? Kamara remains a dynamic playmaker but is not a workhorse back like Barkley. Moore could use more two-back sets with Kamara and Kendre Miller, leveraging Kamara’s pass-catching ability in space.
- Addition of a Power Runner? If Moore wants a true bell-cow RB, the Saints could target a power back in the draft or free agency.
- Offensive Line Overhaul? The Eagles had one of the NFL’s best O-lines in 2024. The Saints must improve their trenches to replicate that success.
- Can Kellen Moore Elevate Derek Carr’s Play?
Derek Carr’s 2024 season was a mixed bag. He finished 11th in Pro Football Network’s QB+ metric, ahead of Sam Darnold and Jordan Love, yet the Saints’ offense ranked just 22nd overall.
Moore is known for quarterback-friendly play calling, helping Dak Prescott and Jalen Hurts thrive in his system. Below is a breakdown of what to expect if he fully commits to Carr.
- More play-action and RPOs to help Carr get the ball out quickly.
- It was a faster tempo, similar to what he ran in Dallas and Philadelphia.
- Greater emphasis on short-to-intermediate throws to maximize Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed.
However, there’s also the possibility that Moore will move on from Carr. If he wants a fresh start, cutting Carr post-June 1 will save $30 million—giving Moore the financial flexibility to reshape the roster.
- Could the Saints Draft a Running Back Early?
If Moore wants to replicate his Eagles offense, the Saints may prioritize a running back in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Potential Targets:
- TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State) – A home-run hitter with speed and receiving ability.
- Ashton Jeanty (Boise State) – Broke three school records and almost broke college football’s single-season rushing record held by Barry Sanders.
- Omarion Hampton (North Carolina) – A physical runner built for a run-heavy scheme. In 2024, Hampton rushed for 1,660 yards and 15 touchdowns.
The Saints haven’t drafted a running back in the first two rounds since selecting Mark Ingram in 2011, but Moore’s track record suggests he may push for a feature back.
- How Will Kellen Moore Balance the Run and Pass in New Orleans?
Moore’s Dallas offenses were among the NFL’s best-passing attacks, but his Philadelphia offense relied heavily on the run. Which version will Saints fans see?
Key Factors:
- If the Saints rebuild their O-line, expect a heavier run approach.
- If they keep Carr, Moore may use a pass-heavy scheme similar to his Dallas days.
- Personnel dictates play-calling – If Kamara, Olave, and Shaheed are the best weapons, Moore will lean into their strengths.
- Will the Saints’ Offensive Line Be Upgraded?
The biggest factor in Moore’s offensive success has been the quality of his offensive line. Philadelphia’s dominant front five was a major reason Barkley thrived.
Saints’ O-Line Challenges:
- Inconsistent pass protection – The unit ranked 23rd in OL+ (D+ grade) in 2024.
- Lack of dominant run blocking – Moore may have to adjust his philosophy without a strong run-blocking unit.
Expect the Saints to prioritize offensive line upgrades in the draft and free agency.
- Is Alvin Kamara the Next Saquon Barkley?
Kamara is still a dynamic talent, but at 29, he’s unlikely to handle a heavy workload like Barkley did under Moore.
Related: NFL 1st Round Mock Draft 1.0: Saints Ashton Jeanty at 9.
Potential Usage for Kamara:
- More receiving work: Expect Kamara to be featured as a pass-catcher, lining up in the slot or on screens.
- Fewer between-the-tackles runs: The Saints will need a physical complement to Kamara.
- Rotating backfield: Expect Kendre Miller to get more carries while Kamara is used situationally.
- How Will Kellen Moore’s Offense Shape the Saints’ Draft Strategy?
Moore’s arrival could shift the Saints’ 2025 draft priorities. With his emphasis on the run game and offensive line play, here’s what they might target:
Likely Positions of Focus:
- Offensive Line (OT/G/C) – The foundation of Moore’s offense.
- Running Back – A power back to complement Kamara.
- Quarterback? – If Moore moves on from Carr, the Saints could draft their future QB.
If the Saints trade down from No. 9, they could acquire multiple picks to address all three areas.
A New Identity for the Saints?
Kellen Moore’s arrival in New Orleans represents a significant shift in offensive philosophy. His past success with both pass-heavy and run-heavy systems means he can adapt his scheme to fit the Saints’ personnel.
However, the biggest question remains: Will Derek Carr be the quarterback of Moore’s offense? If Moore sticks with Carr, expect a more balanced attack emphasizing quick passing and play-action; if he moves on, the Saints’ entire offseason strategy changes.
Despite how it unfolds, Moore’s track record suggests a more explosive, creative offense that Saints fans have desperately waited for since Sean Payton’s departure.
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