**Kellen Moore to Return as Saints Head Coach in 2026 Despite Tough Season**
Key Takeaways:
- Kellen Moore will remain the New Orleans Saints head coach for the 2026 season.
- The Saints have shown late-season improvement after a 1-8 start.
- Moore’s ability to operate with a weak roster has earned league-wide respect.
New Orleans, LA — Kellen Moore is trending after NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that the New Orleans Saints will retain Moore as head coach through at least the 2026 season, despite a disappointing 2025 campaign. The Saints started with a dismal **1-8 record** but have begun closing the season on a more competitive note.
Saints Show Faith in Moore’s Direction Despite 4-10 Start
According to **NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero**, the Saints have committed to bringing **Kellen Moore** back for the **2026 season**, signaling long-term faith in his ability to develop the team. The Saints currently sit at **4-10** heading into **Week 16**, but have gone **3-2 over their last five games**, including back-to-back wins over NFC South rivals—the **Tampa Bay Buccaneers** and **Carolina Panthers**.
Rapoport noted, “This was never going to be a championship season in New Orleans, and Moore’s work has impressed people around the league.”
Context: A Rocky First Season and Glimpses of Progress
Kellen Moore took over as head coach with a roster widely regarded as subpar and entered his first season with low external expectations. Despite instability at quarterback—where rookie **Tyler Shough** has emerged as a surprising bright spot—Moore managed to extract meaningful performances from his limited offense. Shough’s development, combined with tactical adaptability, has resonated with team executives and league insiders alike.
The Saints’ current situation follows a period of decline after former head coach **Dennis Allen’s** tenure came to an end. Moore, previously the **offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles**, is now being trusted to stabilize and eventually lead New Orleans into playoff contention again.
What’s Next for Moore and the Saints
New Orleans is projected to hold a top-10 pick in the upcoming **April 2026 NFL Draft**, and with proper roster upgrades, Moore could have the tools to compete by next season. With three games remaining against the **New York Jets**, **Tennessee Titans**, and **Atlanta Falcons**, the Saints will aim to carry momentum into a pivotal offseason. General Manager **Mickey Loomis** now faces pressure to deliver personnel improvements to match the coaching commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Kellen Moore trending?
A: He’s confirmed to return as Saints head coach in 2026 despite a subpar 2025 season, which has sparked fan and league interest.
Q: What happens next?
A: The Saints will close out the 2025 season and prepare for a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with Moore continuing to build his program.
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