Saints OC Pete Carmichael Jr. declines interview for their HC vacancy

While Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen and special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi have interviewed for the Saints' head-coaching vacancy, offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr. hasn’t been mentioned as a potential candidate. Per ESPN’s Mike Triplett, Carmichael wasn’t snubbed for an interview. Rather, the OC declined the opportunity to interview for the gig.

Carmichael has been coaching in the NFL since 2000, including stints with the Browns, Chargers and Washington. After having worked alongside Drew Brees in San Diego, Carmichael joined the QB in New Orleans in 2006, getting hired as the team’s quarterbacks coach. He eventually took on the role of passing-game coach, and he was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2009.

The 50-year-old has served as the Saints OC since that time, with the coach often getting credit for New Orleans' high-flying offense. Considering the team’s success during Carmichael’s stint as OC, he certainly has the credentials and experience to earn a promotion to HC. His hiring would also provide the organization with some continuity. Alas, the veteran coach won’t look to replace Sean Payton in New Orleans.

With Doug Pederson now out of the picture for the Saints, the team is eyeing six candidates for their HC vacancy:

• Dennis Allen, defensive coordinator (Saints): Interviewed 2/3
• Eric Bieniemy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interview requested
• Brian Flores, former head coach (Dolphins): Interviewed 2/1
• Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 2/2
• Byron Leftwich, offensive coordinator (Buccaneers): Interview requested
• Darren Rizzi, special teams coordinator (Saints): To interview