Saints Increase Pursuit of 2 Bears Head-Coaching Candidates

Saints in Pursuit of Kafka and Weaver

As the head-coaching carousel speeds up this week, the Saints are proceeding with two of the Bears’ candidates in mind. Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, both of whom interviewed with the Bears, are expected to be in Louisiana for in-person interviews this week.

In-Person Interviews Scheduled

The Saints plan to sit down with Kafka on Tuesday and Weaver on Wednesday.

Top Candidates in High Demand

The process likely will speed up after the Lions lost in the playoffs Saturday, freeing up top candidates Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn. The Bears interviewed both of them as well and likely have Johnson rated as their top candidate. Johnson has been in demand the last three hiring cycles, and the Raiders and Jaguars are expected to make a strong push for him as well.

About the Candidates

Mike Kafka

Kafka, 37, grew up in Chicago and played quarterback at St. Rita High School and Northwestern. He worked under Matt Nagy as an assistant with the Chiefs and has been the Giants’ offensive coordinator since 2022. The Giants have finished 15th, 30th, and 31st in scoring in his three seasons.

Anthony Weaver

Weaver, 44, played defensive end at Notre Dame and was a second-round pick by the Ravens in 2002. After seven seasons in the NFL, he got his starting in coaching at the University of Florida in 2010. The Dolphins hired him as defensive coordinator a year ago when Vic Fangio left for the Eagles.

Conclusion

The Saints are wasting no time in their search for a new head coach, with Kafka and Weaver scheduled to visit New Orleans this week. Both candidates have impressive resumes and would be a great fit for the Saints’ coaching staff. The team’s pursuit of Johnson and Glenn is expected to accelerate after the Lions’ playoff loss, but the Saints are prioritizing Kafka and Weaver for now.

FAQs

• Q: Who are the two Bears’ candidates that the Saints are pursuing?
  A: The Saints are pursuing Mike Kafka, Giants offensive coordinator, and Anthony Weaver, Dolphins defensive coordinator.
• Q: What is the current status of the Saints’ coaching search?
  A: The Saints are in the process of scheduling in-person interviews with Kafka and Weaver this week.
• Q: Are Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn still in the running for the Saints’ head coaching position?
  A: Yes, Johnson and Glenn are still top candidates for the Saints’ head coaching position, but the team is prioritizing Kafka and Weaver at this time.