The New Orleans Saints are currently undergoing a major shift in their coaching staff, and one of the positions that has garnered attention is the offensive coordinator role, which was vacated after Kellen Moore left the team. While the Saints have already made strides in evaluating potential candidates, a new name has emerged as a surprise contender: former Tennessee Volunteers quarterback, Eric Ainge.
Ainge, who had a solid college career at Tennessee, has been making a name for himself in the coaching ranks, and his familiarity with both the SEC and the NFL could make him an appealing option for the Saints. Here’s a deeper dive into why Ainge could be a fit for the offensive coordinator position in New Orleans.
Ainge’s Background and College Career
Eric Ainge’s rise to prominence began during his time as a quarterback for the Tennessee Volunteers. Playing under head coach Phillip Fulmer, Ainge led the Volunteers to several key victories during his college career, including an impressive performance in the 2005 Peach Bowl. Over the course of his time in Knoxville, Ainge accumulated over 7,000 yards passing and became known for his strong arm and poise in critical situations.
While Ainge’s NFL career as a quarterback wasn’t as successful, he gained a lot of knowledge of the professional game during his time with the New York Jets and the Tennessee Titans. After his playing days, Ainge began transitioning into coaching, taking on various roles where he could further develop his understanding of offensive schemes and leadership within a team environment.
Ainge’s Transition to Coaching
After retiring from the NFL, Eric Ainge moved into the world of coaching and broadcasting. He served as an assistant coach at several levels, focusing primarily on quarterbacks and offensive development. His coaching journey has led him to work with high school and college programs, where he has been credited with developing quarterbacks and instilling a strong football IQ in his players.
During his coaching career, Ainge has also worked closely with former Tennessee offensive coordinator David Cutcliffe, who is known for his work in developing quarterbacks, including Peyton Manning and Eli Manning. This connection to Cutcliffe could prove beneficial, especially when working with an NFL offense like that of the Saints, which has an established veteran quarterback in Derek Carr.
Additionally, Ainge’s expertise in offensive schemes, especially in terms of game management and quarterback play, aligns well with what the Saints are looking for as they look to revamp their offensive unit. His background as a former quarterback gives him an understanding of the nuances of the position that can be valuable when crafting offensive game plans.
Why Ainge Could Be a Fit for the Saints
The Saints have experienced some ups and downs over the past few seasons, particularly since the retirement of their future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees. With the arrival of Derek Carr at the helm of the offense, the team is looking for a fresh perspective that can unlock the potential of their offensive personnel. Here are a few reasons why Ainge could be a potential fit for the Saints’ offensive coordinator position:
- Quarterback Development: Ainge’s experience as a quarterback himself and his time working with other signal-callers gives him an edge when it comes to developing quarterbacks. The Saints have invested heavily in Derek Carr, and it will be crucial for Carr to perform at a high level. Ainge’s knowledge of the quarterback position could provide the guidance Carr needs to elevate his game in New Orleans.
- Innovative Offensive Schemes: Throughout his coaching career, Ainge has shown a willingness to experiment with innovative offensive schemes that adapt to the strengths of the players on the field. In the NFL, where offensive strategies are continually evolving, this ability to craft game plans that make the most of a team’s personnel could be invaluable. The Saints, who are looking to build around Carr, could benefit from Ainge’s adaptable approach to offensive football.
- Understanding of the SEC and NFL: Ainge’s experience playing in the SEC and coaching at the college level provides him with a well-rounded perspective on football. The SEC is known for producing highly competitive players and talent, and his time in the conference could give him an edge in understanding the nuances of game planning and offensive execution at a high level. Additionally, Ainge’s NFL experience makes him familiar with the dynamics and expectations of professional football.
- Familiarity with High-Pressure Situations: As a former quarterback, Ainge understands the pressures that come with performing at the highest level. Quarterbacks are often the focal point of a team’s offense, and Ainge’s ability to manage the high expectations of being a leader on the field could translate well to his ability to work with quarterbacks in the coaching ranks. This experience could help him craft offensive game plans that suit the personalities and abilities of the quarterbacks under his tutelage.
- Fresh Perspective for the Saints: The Saints’ offense has had moments of inconsistency, and Ainge’s fresh perspective as a relatively new coach in the NFL could inject a much-needed boost of energy into the unit. He may bring fresh ideas and a different approach to the offense, which could be exactly what the team needs to get back on track and improve its performance.
The Saints’ Current Offensive Situation
In 2024, the Saints’ offense has struggled to consistently produce at a high level. While Derek Carr brings stability to the quarterback position, the team has faced challenges in the passing game and has been inconsistent in both the run game and the offensive line play. The team has offensive weapons in Chris Olave, Michael Thomas, and Juwan Johnson, but their production has not always met expectations.
One area where the Saints could benefit from Ainge’s expertise is quarterback development. Carr, who has had an up-and-down career, could benefit from a coach who understands the mental and physical challenges of being a quarterback. Ainge has been around the game long enough to know how to tap into a quarterback’s strengths and correct weaknesses, making him a potentially valuable asset to Carr and the entire offense.
Another key aspect of the Saints’ offense is their run game, which has also lacked consistency. With Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams, the Saints have the talent in the backfield to be a top-tier rushing team. Ainge’s ability to balance the pass and run effectively could help the offense become more well-rounded and dynamic.
Challenges and Competition for the OC Position
While Ainge may be a strong candidate for the Saints’ offensive coordinator role, he will face significant competition. Other candidates for the position include well-established coaches with deep experience in the NFL, such as Pete Carmichael Jr., the Saints’ former offensive coordinator, and potential external candidates with notable success in various offensive systems.
The Saints will need to weigh their options carefully, considering not only Ainge’s coaching acumen but also his fit within the existing team culture and offensive philosophy. Given his relatively young coaching career, the Saints may view Ainge as a fresh face who could bring a new perspective and energy to the position.