The first big free agent signing for the Saints was a coach not a player. The NFL Network was first to report that Dennis Allen is coming back to be the Black & Gold’s defensive coordinator.
#Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen is expected to receive a new deal in New Orleans and stay there, sources say. Key move for Sean Payton and that impressive defense, as Allen’s deal is being finalized.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 3, 2019
This past season started out rough, but the Fleur Di Lis D closed things out as a major strength of the team. While the offense stopped putting up video game like stats down he stretch, the defense led the way giving up just 17 points a game in the final 8 contests.
Allen took over the role of defensive coordinator in 2015 after Rob Ryan was let go. He has been able to dig the Saints D out of the depths of the NFL rankings. They finished 2nd best against the run in 2018 and 29th vs. the pass.
