The New Orleans Saints will hold a second interview with New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka on Tuesday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
The Saints have completed interviews with Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore among others. Mike McCarthy also emerged as a candidate following his exit from the Dallas Cowboys.
Following a nondescript playing career, Kafka's stock rose rapidly as a coach. In 2016, he was a graduate assistant on Northwestern's staff, and he became the Kansas City Chiefs quarterbacks coach just two seasons later.
Following the 2022 season, it looked to be only a matter of time before Kafka would get hired as an NFL head coach. His first year as the Giants OC saw Daniel Jones seemingly turn a corner while Saquon Barkley ran for 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Kafka's reputation has probably taken a bit of a hit, though, with New York's offense regressing and becoming one of the NFL's worst.
The fact the 37-year-old is still getting coaching interviews points to the fact he remains well regarded around the league. In addition to the Saints, he met with the Chicago Bears for an official sit-down.
For whoever takes the job, a major challenge could await in New Orleans.
The Saints are projected to be $52.3 million over the salary cap. It will be another offseason of general manager Mickey Loomis working is magic to ensure the team is cap compliant and able to strengthen the roster.
A new quarterback could be leading the offense, too, because cutting Derek Carr would go some way toward gaining some financial breathing room. Designating him as a post-June 1 release would free up $30 million in cap space.
Considering New Orleans would likely be leaning on Spencer Rattler or another young QB as Carr's replacement in that scenario, an offensive-minded coach such as Kafka would be a natural fit.
