Saints Hire Pete Sirmon as New Linebackers Coach

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The New Orleans Saints are bolstering their coaching staff by hiring Pete Sirmon as their new linebackers coach, according to ESPN‘s Pete Thamel. The appointment adds to head coach Kellen Moore‘s growing roster of assistants, marking another significant move for the team as they transition into a new era.

Sirmon, 48, comes to New Orleans after spending the last seven seasons at the University of California, Berkeley, where he served as the defensive coordinator for the past five years. Under his leadership, Cal’s defense gained a reputation for creating turnovers, finishing the 2023 season as the national leader in fumbles recovered (16) and tying for the lead in total turnovers gained (28).

During his tenure, Cal’s defense also ranked 14th nationally in rushing defense, allowing an average of just 109.8 yards per game. This track record of success has made Sirmon a sought-after coach, and he now steps into his first NFL coaching role.

Sirmon is no stranger to the professional game; he was a fourth-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2000. He played as a linebacker for the Titans until 2006, featuring in 89 games. His experience as an NFL player and a college coach positions him well to guide the Saints’ linebackers under the watchful eye of defensive coordinator Brandon Staley.

Before his stint at Cal, Sirmon accumulated coaching experience at several universities, including Louisville, Mississippi State, USC, Washington, Tennessee, and Oregon. His multifaceted roles at these institutions included positions as both an associate head coach and a recruiting coordinator, illustrating a deep understanding of the game and its athletes.

In 2019, Sirmon was recognized as the Linebackers Coach of the Year at the college level, a testament to his effectiveness and impact on player development. As he joins Kellen Moore’s staff, he will look to carry that success into the NFL.

Sirmon’s appointment signals a continued departure from the Saints’ previous leadership under Sean Payton and Dennis Allen. His fresh perspective and emphasis on aggressive defensive play will be critical as the Saints aim to enhance their performance in the upcoming NFL season.