In a press conference held today at the New Orleans Saints’ training facility, Head Coach JC addressed the media to announce significant changes in the team’s special teams unit. After a season marked by persistent issues in special teams play, Coach JC revealed that the Saints have parted ways with their special teams coach and will be actively seeking a replacement.
The decision to make changes in the coaching staff comes on the heels of an otherwise successful season for the Saints. With a top 10 offense and a top 10 defense, the team showcased its prowess in key areas. However, the glaring problems in the special teams unit could not be ignored, prompting decisive action from the coaching staff.
One of the most alarming statistics from the season was the Saints’ vulnerability to onside kicks, allowing three recoveries, the highest in the league. This deficiency in onside kick coverage likely played a pivotal role in several critical moments throughout the season. “When you work all game to get a lead and play the clock well, I want to see our guys in victory formation, not struggling to hold on like what happened vs Tampa back in week 7” JC told the media with clear frustration.
The special teams struggles extended beyond onside kicks, as the Saints yielded a kick return touchdown in the regular season. The playoff loss further exposed vulnerabilities, with a punt return touchdown and a second long punt return contributing to their postseason exit. These lapses in special teams coverage undoubtedly had a significant impact on the team’s overall performance.
Compounding these issues, the Saints recorded one of the lowest punting net averages in the league. The inability to control field position in the punting game placed additional pressure on both the offense and defense. In conjunction with the coaching changes and lack of punting success, the Saints have also announced the release of Punter Lou Hedley. Hedley is 31, but only finishing his second season and just was unable to transition to the NFL as an Australian punter. The decision to part ways with Hedley underscores the organization’s commitment to addressing the shortcomings in the special teams unit comprehensively.
Coach JC expressed the team’s gratitude for Hedley’s contributions while acknowledging the necessity of making tough decisions for the betterment of the team. The release of Hedley opens up possibilities for the Saints to explore alternatives in the punting position during the offseason whether it be from free agency or a player entering the draft.
As the Saints embark on the search for a new special teams coach and evaluate options for the punter position, the overarching goal is to rectify the issues that plagued this crucial aspect of the game. With a solid foundation in both offense and defense, the Saints aim to build a well-rounded team that can contend at the highest level in the upcoming seasons. The changes announced today signal a commitment to continuous improvement and a determination to address weaknesses head-on in pursuit of sustained success.
