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Mike McCarthy Makes Decision On Saints' Coaching Job

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jan 28, 2025 10:30 PM ET

Mike McCarthy was a contender for two coaching jobs this cycle, including the New Orleans Saints. Moments ago, we received a significant update on his future in the NFL.

Last week, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that McCarthy is "in play" for the Saints. He also mentioned how the veteran coach has history with New Orleans. From 2000-2004, he was the team's offensive coordinator.

"I think Mike McCarthy makes a lot of sense there," Schefter said. "He’s got deep ties and connections to the organization. We’ll see ultimately if he’s the guy."

Despite his history with the Saints, McCarthy has surprisingly pulled himself out of the running for that job.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero just reported that McCarthy will focus on the 2026 hiring cycle, which means he'll spend the 2025 season away from the sidelines.

McCarthy actually went this same route during the 2019 offseason. After being let go by the Green Bay Packers in 2018, he took a year off before agreeing to a deal with the Dallas Cowboys.

In five seasons with "America's Team," McCarthy owned a 49-35 record with three playoff appearances.

With McCarthy out of the running for the Saints, the belief is that Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore is the favorite for the job.

"Coming off the Saints' second interview with Kellen Moore, the Eagles’ OC remains the most likely head coach in New Orleans but nothing is, or can be, finalized at this point," NFL Network's Mike Garafolo said.

The Saints have already whiffed on a handful of candidates, including Joe Brady, Aaron Glenn and Kliff Kingsbury.

We'll see if the Saints can land Moore as their next head coach. As for McCarthy, we'll have to wait until 2026 to hear his name again.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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