2. Pete Carmichael, Saints offensive coordinator
Carmichael came to New Orleans on Sean Payton’s staff in 2006 as quarterbacks coach, with the addition of passing game coordinator to his title in 2007. He was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2009, and he has been in that post ever since.
Payton’s decision to step down has the Saints in search of a new head coach, with Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn getting an interview. Surprisingly, all things considered, Carmichael turned down an opportunity to interview for the job.
Saints OC Pete Carmichael Jr. declined the opportunity to interview for the team's head coaching job, per source, which is why he's not on the list of candidates along with fellow coordinators Dennis Allen and Darren Rizzi.
— Mike Triplett (@MikeTriplett) February 4, 2022
Obviously had the credentials to be considered for it.
Carmichael surely has a good reason for not wanting the interview. Saints defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, the easy favorite to replace Payton, would probably be inclined to retain him as the offensive coordinator and it’s a post he’s certainly comfortable in. The Saints may be a player in the deep end of the quarterback market this offseason too.
But Carmichael turning down the head coaching interview could be a sign he’s open to leaving the Saints in the wake of Payton’s exit. Campbell was on the Saints’ coaching staff as tight ends coach for five seasons before becoming the Lions’ head coach, so he’s definitely familiar with Carmichael’s work.
I wouldn’t say it’s likely Carmichael is itching to leave New Orleans. But Payton stepping away feels like it opens the door, if only slightly. Campbell should now have him on his list of offensive coordinator candidates, and making a push for a conversation about the job is an easy order.