As the Kellen Moore era officially gets underway in New Orleans, the Saints wasted no time assembling their offensive coaching staff on Tuesday. With several familiar faces and intriguing hires, the team lays the foundation for Moore’s vision on offense.
Joel Thomas Returns as Running Backs Coach
The Saints are bringing back Joel Thomas to serve as their running backs coach, as first reported by NFL Media. Thomas is no stranger to the Saints, having previously held the role from 2015 to 2023, where he played a significant role in developing players like Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram.
Last season, Thomas took his expertise to the New York Giants, working in the same capacity. His return to New Orleans provides continuity in the backfield, and with Moore’s run-heavy success in Philadelphia, Thomas will be crucial in maximizing the Saints’ ground attack.
Eagles Assistant T.J. Paganetti Joins Saints’ Staff
A few hours later, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reported that the Saints had hired T.J. Paganetti, who most recently served as the Philadelphia Eagles’ run game coordinator and assistant offensive line coach. Paganetti has been with Philadelphia since 2017, playing a role in shaping one of the league’s most dominant rushing attacks.
While his specific role with the Saints is still unclear, his run-game coordination and offensive line development background suggest he could have significant input in Moore’s scheme. His experience will be especially valuable as the Saints look to rebuild their offensive line and establish a more consistent ground attack.
Scott Tolzien Named Quarterbacks Coach
In another notable move, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the Saints are hiring Scott Tolzien as their quarterback’s coach. Tolzien, a former NFL quarterback, worked closely with Kellen Moore during their time in Dallas.
- Tolzien served as the Cowboys’ quarterbacks coach for the past two seasons.
- Moore was Dallas’ offensive coordinator before moving on to the Chargers and Eagles in 2023 and 2024.
This reunion suggests continuity in Moore’s passing game philosophy, and Tolzien will be tasked with helping Derek Carr or a potential new quarterback adapt to the system.
Doug Nussmeier Expected to Become Offensive Coordinator
The day’s final—and perhaps most significant—news came when league insider Josina Anderson reported that the Saints were finalizing a deal with Eagles quarterbacks coach Doug Nussmeier to become their next offensive coordinator.
- Nussmeier worked under Moore in Philadelphia, helping guide a top-five offense in 2024.
- He previously coached Dak Prescott in Dallas and played a pivotal in Philadelphia’s success last season.
As offensive coordinator, Nussmeier will oversee the unit while Moore likely handles play-calling duties. His experience developing quarterbacks and coordinating West Coast-style offenses makes him a valuable asset in getting the Saints’ passing attack back on track.
What’s Next? Defensive Staff Takes Center Stage
With the offensive coaching staff taking shape, the Saints will now turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball. The team must identify a defensive coordinator who can maintain competitiveness on that side of the ball while adapting to Moore’s offensive philosophy.
With several key staff members in place, the Saints’ offensive rebuild under Moore is beginning to take shape. Now, the focus will shift to free agency, and the draft as New Orleans looks to reload for the 2025 season.
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