“Still on it” – Saints Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak Clears the Air Regarding his Future with New Orleans Amid Caoching Changes…
Klint Kubiak has experienced a pattern of brief stints as an offensive coordinator. After being hired by the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, he was let go the following offseason. In 2022, he took over play-calling duties midseason for the Denver Broncos but faced the same fate a year later.
In 2024, Kubiak became the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints. Whether this role will last longer than a year remains uncertain.
“I know one thing,” Kubiak stated. “I want to be a Saint.”
Kubiak is under contract through 2025, but with the Saints set to begin a head coach search after their final game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, his future may depend on the next coach’s decisions. Though rare, it’s not unheard of for a new head coach to retain existing staff. For instance, Dave Canales kept defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero in Carolina, and the Colts retained Gus Bradley under Shane Steichen. Similarly, Dennis Allen initially kept Pete Carmichael and Darren Rizzi when he took over in New Orleans.
Rizzi, now the Saints’ interim coach, acknowledged Kubiak’s challenging circumstances. The offense was plagued by injuries, with quarterback Derek Carr playing just 10 games and key players like Erik McCoy, Chris Olave, and Taysom Hill missing extended time. Despite these setbacks, Kubiak showcased creativity in adapting his game plans.
The Saints’ offensive stats this season were less impressive than last year’s, averaging fewer points and yards per game. However, in the games Carr started, the offense performed well, averaging 24.5 points and 350.1 yards per game — rankings that would place them in the NFL’s top 15 for a full season.
Kubiak also introduced notable improvements, including a better rushing attack and increased use of play action and motion. He devised successful trick plays like Cedrick Wilson’s touchdown pass and a double-pass touchdown to Foster Moreau.
Players appreciate Kubiak’s emphasis on detail and his trust in them. Tight end Juwan Johnson noted, “The thing I like most about Klint is he expects a lot because he knows what we’re capable of.”
Kubiak hopes to stay in New Orleans, though his chances might hinge on whether the Saints retain Rizzi or hire a defensive-minded coach. If the team opts for offensive coaches like Detroit’s Ben Johnson or Buffalo’s Joe Brady, Kubiak’s return becomes less likely.
Should Kubiak move on, it would mark his fourth straight offseason relocating his family. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude for the opportunities but acknowledged the challenges. “It’s tough as a dad to move your family around,” he said, becoming emotional as he thanked his wife and children for their support.
Despite the uncertainties, Kubiak remains thankful for the chance to lead an offense, regardless of how long the opportunity lasts.
