The New Orleans Saints have made a significant coaching change, parting ways with run game coordinator T.J. Paganetti, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. This decision follows one of the team's least productive rushing performances in franchise history during their Week 7 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Paris.
The Saints struggled mightily on the ground, accumulating just 18 rushing yards on 17 attempts in the 16-10 loss. This marked the team's worst rushing output since an 11-yard game in 1999. Following the disappointing performance, head coach Kellen Moore indicated that the team would evaluate the staff during their bye week.
Paganetti's dismissal represents the first major change to the coaching staff since Moore was hired prior to the 2025 season. While the team finished the previous season with a 6-11 record, the staff remained largely intact after the Saints won four of their final five games. Paganetti had joined Moore's staff last season after spending several years with him in Philadelphia, where Paganetti served as the assistant offensive line coach for the Eagles and contributed to their success, including two Super Bowl victories.
This season, the Saints' rushing attack ranks 28th in the league in yards per game, a position they held last year as well. The team has been hampered by injuries, with running back Travis Etienne placed on injured reserve with a hamstring issue in early October, leading to Alvin Kamara stepping into a starting role.
With a current record of 2-5, the Saints are at the bottom of the NFC South. Owner Gayle Benson has publicly stated that the team's performance has been "unacceptable" and emphasized the need for improved play to regain fan confidence.