“I Am Back to Retrieve the Team and See Us Win Again”Says Former Head Coach Darren Rizzi as He Return to New Orleans Saints Foothball as..
In a dramatic and emotional return to the Crescent City, former New Orleans Saints assistant coach Darren Rizzi is back with the franchise — this time in a prominent leadership role. The Saints officially announced Monday that Rizzi will rejoin the team as Associate Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator, reigniting hopes for a renewed era of intensity, discipline, and playoff ambition in New Orleans.
“I am back to retrieve the team and see us win again,” Rizzi declared during his introductory press conference at the team’s Metairie facility. “This city, this team — it’s in my heart. I’ve always believed in the fight that lives in the Saints, and I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to help lead that charge again.”
Rizzi previously served on the Saints’ coaching staff from 2019 to 2023, during which time he established one of the NFL’s most consistent special teams units. Known for his passionate coaching style, tactical sharpness, and deep respect from players and peers alike, Rizzi became a cornerstone of the Saints’ sideline culture. After a short tenure exploring head coaching opportunities and consulting roles across the league, Rizzi has chosen to return to the organization where he made a lasting impact.
This time around, Rizzi returns not only as Special Teams Coordinator but also as Associate Head Coach — a title that signals the organization’s belief in his leadership and potential succession role. With Head Coach Dennis Allen under pressure to deliver results after a pair of middling seasons, Rizzi’s appointment may also be viewed as a strategic stabilizing move for a franchise seeking renewed focus and identity.
A Leader Among Leaders
Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis praised Rizzi’s return, calling him a “pillar of leadership, energy, and accountability” whose return could help reignite the team’s core values.
“Darren Rizzi brings a level of fire and discipline that is hard to replicate,” Loomis said. “He knows how to get the most out of players, he understands this city, and he knows what it takes to win in New Orleans.”
Current and former players echoed those sentiments. Linebacker Demario Davis, one of the Saints’ veteran leaders, took to social media shortly after the announcement, tweeting, “Coach Rizzi is the real deal. One of the best motivators and minds in the game. Let’s go get it.”
Rebuilding the Saints’ Identity
Rizzi steps into a Saints locker room that has undergone significant transition since his last stint. With Drew Brees long retired, the offense is still looking for a steady identity under quarterback Derek Carr. Meanwhile, the defense — long a strength of the team — showed signs of inconsistency last season.
While his focus will remain on special teams, Rizzi’s expanded role gives him greater influence on overall team strategy and locker room culture. His ability to command respect and foster accountability is seen as a much-needed asset.
“I’m not coming back to relive the past — I’m coming to help shape the future,” Rizzi said. “We’ve got the pieces, we’ve got the talent, and now it’s time to push past the excuses and get back to playing Saints football — hard-nosed, smart, and relentless.”
A Look Ahead
As the Saints prepare for OTAs and the start of training camp this summer, Rizzi will begin rebuilding a special teams unit that has historically ranked among the NFL’s best under his guidance. But perhaps more importantly, his voice will be one of the most influential in the entire organization moving forward.
Rizzi’s return is not just a coaching hire — it’s a culture reset. And for a team and fanbase hungry for another playoff run, that might be exactly what the Saints need.