Saints Owner Issues Stern Warning Amidst Disappointing 1-4 Start
Gayle Benson publicly expresses dissatisfaction with the team's performance, calling it 'not acceptable' and urging for significant improvement.
New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson has publicly stated that the team's current 1-4 record is "not acceptable" and falls short of what fans deserve. In a rare in-season critique, Benson voiced her frustration at a Greater New Orleans Quarterback Club luncheon, directly addressing the team's struggles under head coach Kellen Moore and general manager Mickey Loomis.
"That is not our standard," Benson declared, emphasizing that the team's performance is unacceptable to her. She acknowledged the frustration felt by fans, stating, "Our fans invest their time and their hearts in the Saints. They are right to expect more than we have delivered."
Benson, who rarely comments publicly on the team during the season, outlined the responsibilities within the organization. "Kellen Moore and his coaches are responsible for preparing our players to perform," she said. "Mickey Loomis and our football staff are responsible for building a roster capable of sustained success. Our players are responsible for their preparation and execution. I am responsible for holding this organization accountable."
The Saints' early-season woes include a narrow overtime loss to the Detroit Lions in Week 1, followed by defeats against the Las Vegas Raiders and the Atlanta Falcons. A Week 5 loss to the Minnesota Vikings further cemented the team's disappointing start.
Benson specifically mentioned the 45-24 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, which occurred during a game commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Superdome's restoration after Hurricane Katrina. "Losing this year’s anniversary game to Atlanta truly disappointed me," she stated.
While acknowledging Loomis's long tenure with the team, Benson made it clear that accountability is paramount. She affirmed her commitment to making the necessary decisions to improve the team, stating, "Everyone in this organization understands the urgency. We must prepare better, execute consistently and correct the mistakes that are costing us the games."
Benson concluded by stressing that words are insufficient and that performance must drive renewed confidence. "Words will not restore our fans’ confidence. Our performance must do that."
The Saints are set to face the New York Giants next, followed by a matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers in France as part of the NFL's international games.