We're getting closer to a decision.
Now that the NFL's Divisional Round is over and done with, things are going to get real interesting on the head coaching front. This year's cycle is about to take off as dominoes are surely to fall in the coming days.
The New Orleans Saints began the week by making a couple of interview decisions within their building.
This week, the Saints are set to conduct two particular second interviews with names that appear to be some of their top candidates.
First up, the Saints have scheduled a second interview with New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka. He'll be interviewed in person on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, New Orleans will also be having a second interview with Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. His in-person interview will take place on Wednesday.
These interviews come just days after another top candidate, Aaron Glenn, was rumored to want a job outside of New Orleans.
Mike Kafka and Anthony Weaver are very different candidates, but equally interesting
Let's start with Kafka. The current Giants offensive coordinator doesn't seem like a top candidate when compared to the likes of someone like Ben Johnson, for example. However, Kafka's background is a positive one.
He's been with the Giants since 2022, working under Brian Daboll and squeezing every bit he could out of Daniel Jones, who most assumed was a lost cause early on. Prior to New York, Kafka was the quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator in Kansas City where worked up close and personal with Patrick Mahomes.
The Giants offense may not have been prolific this season, but New York also hasn't done that side of the ball many favors, specificlly under center and when it comes to putting together an offensive line.
As for Weaver, his Dolphins defense finished as the league's no. 4 unit this past season in terms of yards allowed, believe it or not. They were also 10th in scoring.
This is impressive considering quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was out for various points in the season and Miami's defense was on the field quite a bit. Weaver is more of the under-the-radar type of candidate for most fans, but he's certainly proven his worth.
Prior to his only year in Miami, Weaver spent time with the Ravens as their defensive line coach and run game coordinator. As we have come to know, the Ravens defense and run game has been top notch over the past few seasons.
So, while the two candidates may not come across as "home run" types, they do have interesting backgrounds and come with qualified experience.
