The New Orleans Saints have officially moved on from head coach Dennis Allen, a move announced Monday morning.
The decision came in the hours following a difficult loss to the Panthers that represented the team's 7th straight defeat. Special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi will be taking over in a limited capacity, and there were no additional firings announced as of Monday.
Here's what the Saints officials said in the team's official statement announcing the move:
Team owner Gayle Benson: “Dennis has been part of our organization for many years. He is highly regarded within the NFL. He has been extremely loyal and professional and most importantly an excellent football coach for us. All of this makes today very tough for me and our organization. However, this decision is something that I felt we needed to make at this time. I wish nothing but the best in the future for Dennis and his family. He will always be considered in the highest regard by me and everyone within our organization.”
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Saints GM Mickey Loomis: “DA is an excellent football coach. This season, we have had an avalanche of injuries. It took its toll. DA has never offered excuses, he fought each day for this organization and this team and that is what makes today disappointing. Dennis has been an integral part of this organization’s success for the better part of twenty years. He will be missed.”
The decision marks the first time in more than four decades that the Saints have fired a coach midseason, going back to Dick Nolan in the 1980 season. Rizzi is expected to address the media for the first time in his role Monday afternoon, with the Saints next in action on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome when they host the Atlanta Falcons.