New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara has publicly endorsed interim head coach Darren Rizzi for the permanent head coaching position. In a recent social media post, Kamara stated, “Aite my vote for head coach rhyme wit Fizzi…”
Rizzi, who has been with the Saints since 2019 as the special teams coordinator and assistant head coach since 2022, took over as interim head coach following the mid-season dismissal of Dennis Allen. Under Rizzi’s leadership, the team experienced a notable shift in morale and culture. He implemented immediate changes, such as appointing Kamara as a team captain, a move that resonated deeply within the locker room.
Veteran players have expressed their support for Rizzi’s leadership. Defensive end Cam Jordan highlighted Rizzi’s ability to maintain team cohesion despite challenges, stating, “Rizzi brought the juice, a directive. He brought his knowledge in and went straight to using it. For him to be able to command the respect of the team… nobody went to the tanks. And that speaks to the character of Rizzi. That speaks to the character of the men in this building.”
The Saints’ front office has been conducting interviews with various candidates for the head coaching role, including former Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, and Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. However, severe winter weather in South Louisiana has caused delays in the interview process.
Rizzi has expressed his desire to continue as the head coach and is scheduled for an in-person interview with the Saints’ management. His tenure as interim head coach resulted in a 3-5 record over eight games, an improvement from the team’s 2-7 start under Allen.
Kamara’s endorsement adds significant weight to Rizzi’s candidacy, reflecting the trust and confidence key players have in his leadership. As the Saints aim to rebound from a challenging season, the support from prominent team members like Kamara and Jordan may influence the organization’s decision regarding the head coaching position.
