Sаіntѕ turn up tһe һeаt іn purѕuіt of Super Bowl cһаmpіon һeаd coаcһ аѕ NFL plаyoffѕ unfold

This is another step forward in the search of the Saints' next coach, and they have clear interest in McCarthy. He began his NFL coaching career in New Orleans and shares a strong relationship with general manager Mickey Loomis. 

McCarthy and the Dallas Cowboys mutually agreed to part ways last week. Dallas has begun their search for his replacement, but the experienced HC is garnering plenty of interest around the league. 

The competition

The Chicago Bears interviewed McCarthy last week for their open HC position. 

The Bears flew McCarthy in on a private plane on Jan. 15. He stayed overnight at a nearby hotel and left the next day. All of that felt notable considering the team could have provided the same for Mike Vrabel or Pete Carroll — two other experienced coaches — and didn’t. -- Adam Jahns

The former Cowboys coach is considered a "legitimate candidate" for both the Bears and Saints job, according to NFL insider Adam Schefter. He explained that sentiment during an appearance on the Pat McAfee show Monday.

As for New Orleans, Darren Rizzi already interviewed in person with the team, and Mike Kafka and Anthony Weaver are expected to do so early this week.

Aaron Glenn is expected to interview on Wednesday for a second time, if he does not agree to a deal with the New York Jets on Tuesday. The Saints and Jets are seemingly the frontrunners for the Lions DC as of now, but the Cowboys also have reported interest.

McCarthy remains one of the most interesting options for any team due to his winning pedigree and proven offensive success. He won Super Bowl XLV as the HC of the Green Bay Packers, alongside Aaron Rodgers. 

There are concerns about the nuance of his offense transitioning in today's NFL, but the interest has proven that plenty around the league still believe in his teachings and leadership. 

We will see if the Saints choose him, or another candidate, to be their next head coach in New Orleans.