2017 Saints Coaching Staff: The Inside Scoop You Need To Know

When it comes to football, the New Orleans Saints have always been a team that knows how to deliver excitement. In 2017, the coaching staff played a crucial role in shaping the team's performance. If you're into Saints football, you'll definitely want to dive into this behind-the-scenes look at the brains behind the game. This isn't just about stats; it's about understanding the people who made the Saints roar that season.

Now, let's get real for a sec. The 2017 Saints coaching staff wasn't just any group of guys hanging around the sidelines. These were seasoned professionals with serious game knowledge. They were the architects of strategy, the mentors who helped players grow, and the ones who kept the team on track. So, if you're curious about who these folks were and what they brought to the table, you're in the right place.

As we dig deeper, you'll discover how this coaching staff not only influenced the 2017 season but also set the stage for future success. Whether you're a die-hard Saints fan or just someone interested in football strategy, this article has got you covered. Let's break it down and give you the full scoop on the 2017 Saints coaching staff. No fluff, just pure insight.

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Table of Contents

Biography of the Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Sean Payton

Offensive Coordinators

Defensive Coordinators

Special Teams Coordinator

Assistant Coaches

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Impact on the 2017 Season

Player Development

Strategic Insights

Legacy and Future Outlook

Biography of the Coaching Staff

Before we dive into specifics, let's take a moment to appreciate the 2017 Saints coaching staff as a whole. These guys weren't just employees; they were a family united by a common goal. From the head coach to the assistants, each member brought something unique to the table. Here's a quick glance at the key figures who shaped the team that year.

Check out this table for a snapshot of the coaching staff:

Each of these individuals brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the Saints. Their combined efforts were instrumental in crafting the team's success that season.

Why the Coaching Staff Matters

Here's the deal: a great team needs a great coaching staff. Think of them as the foundation that holds everything together. The 2017 Saints coaching staff wasn't just about calling plays; they were about building relationships, fostering growth, and creating a winning culture. This aspect of their work is often overlooked but is absolutely vital to success.

Head Coach: Sean Payton

Let's talk about the man behind the curtain: Sean Payton. As the head coach of the Saints, Payton wasn't just a leader; he was a visionary. His strategic mind and ability to adapt to changing circumstances were key factors in the Saints' success in 2017.

Payton's approach was simple yet effective: focus on fundamentals, emphasize teamwork, and never underestimate the power of innovation. He wasn't afraid to take risks, and that paid off big time during the season. Under his leadership, the Saints became a formidable force in the NFL.

Sean Payton's Impact

Here are a few highlights of Sean Payton's influence on the 2017 Saints:

• Revamped the offensive playbook to better suit the team's strengths.
• Emphasized discipline and accountability among players.
• Developed a culture of resilience and perseverance.

Payton's legacy extends beyond just one season. He set the tone for future success and ensured that the Saints would remain competitive for years to come.

Offensive Coordinators

Moving on to the offensive coordinators, Pete Carmichael Jr. was the man in charge of designing the Saints' attack. His role was crucial in maximizing the team's offensive potential. Carmichael worked closely with Payton to create a balanced and dynamic offense that could exploit any weakness in the opposition.

One of Carmichael's standout qualities was his ability to think on his feet. He wasn't afraid to make adjustments during games, and his flexibility often caught opponents off guard. This adaptability was a key factor in the Saints' offensive success in 2017.

Key Contributions

Here are some of the key contributions Carmichael made to the Saints' offense:

• Integrated versatile play designs to keep defenses guessing.
• Optimized the use of star players like Drew Brees and Alvin Kamara.
• Emphasized ball security and efficiency in play execution.

His efforts didn't go unnoticed, and the Saints' offensive numbers spoke volumes about his effectiveness.

Defensive Coordinators

On the defensive side, Dennis Allen was the man calling the shots. As defensive coordinator, Allen brought a wealth of experience and tactical knowledge to the Saints. His primary goal was to create a defense that could dominate opponents and protect the team's lead.

Allen's defensive schemes were a mix of aggression and precision. He understood the importance of pressuring the quarterback while also covering receivers effectively. This dual focus allowed the Saints' defense to excel in critical situations.

Allen's Defensive Philosophy

Here's a quick look at Allen's defensive philosophy:

• Focus on creating turnovers through aggressive play.
• Utilize versatile defensive formations to confuse opponents.
• Emphasize communication and teamwork among defensive players.

His leadership played a significant role in the Saints' defensive improvements during the 2017 season.

Special Teams Coordinator

John Bonamego was the man responsible for the Saints' special teams. While this area of the game often gets overlooked, Bonamego understood its importance and worked tirelessly to ensure the Saints were prepared in every situation.

Bonamego's focus was on consistency and reliability. He knew that special teams plays could swing the momentum of a game, and he drilled his players to be ready for anything. His efforts paid off, as the Saints' special teams unit consistently delivered when it mattered most.

Special Teams Highlights

Here are some standout moments from the Saints' special teams in 2017:

• Successful field goal and extra point conversions in crucial games.
• Effective kickoff and punt coverage to limit opponent returns.
• Pivotal blocks and tackles that changed the course of games.

Bonamego's work ensured that the Saints were never caught off guard in special teams situations.

Assistant Coaches

Every great coaching staff has a strong support system, and the 2017 Saints were no exception. The assistant coaches played a vital role in shaping the team's overall performance. From position coaches to strength and conditioning specialists, each assistant brought unique expertise to the table.

These coaches worked closely with players to refine their skills, improve their techniques, and enhance their overall performance. Their contributions may not have been as visible as those of the head coach or coordinators, but they were equally important.

Key Assistant Coaches

Here's a quick rundown of some of the key assistant coaches on the 2017 Saints staff:

• Joe Vitt – Assistant Head Coach/Linebackers
• Greg Studrawa – Offensive Line Coach
• Rod Marinelli – Defensive Line Coach

Each of these coaches brought something special to the team, and their combined efforts were instrumental in the Saints' success.

Impact on the 2017 Season

Now that we've covered the key members of the coaching staff, let's talk about their overall impact on the 2017 season. The Saints finished the season with a record of 11-5, securing a playoff berth and ultimately advancing to the Divisional Round. This success was largely due to the coaching staff's ability to prepare the team for every challenge.

From the opening kickoff to the final whistle, the coaching staff kept the Saints focused and motivated. Their strategic decisions and in-game adjustments were key factors in the team's victories throughout the season.

Season Highlights

Here are some of the standout moments from the 2017 season:

• Week 12 victory over the Falcons, securing a crucial division win.
• Week 15 blowout win over the Bills, showcasing the Saints' offensive dominance.
• Wildcard Round victory over the Panthers, demonstrating the team's playoff readiness.

These moments wouldn't have been possible without the coaching staff's leadership and guidance.

Player Development

One of the most important aspects of a coaching staff's job is player development. The 2017 Saints coaching staff excelled in this area, helping players reach their full potential. Whether it was refining Drew Brees' passing accuracy or unlocking Alvin Kamara's versatility, the coaches were always on the lookout for ways to improve.

Their efforts paid off, as several players had breakout seasons in 2017. Kamara, in particular, became a household name thanks to his incredible performances on the field. The coaching staff's ability to identify talent and nurture it was a key factor in the Saints' success that year.

Development Success Stories

Here are a few examples of player development successes from the 2017 season:

• Alvin Kamara's emergence as one of the NFL's top running backs.
• Michael Thomas' breakout season as a reliable wide receiver.
• Marshon Lattimore's dominance as a rookie cornerback.

These players owe much of their success to the coaching staff's dedication and expertise.

Strategic Insights

Let's talk strategy for a moment. The 2017 Saints coaching staff was known for its innovative approach to game planning. They weren't afraid to think outside the box and try new things, and this mindset paid dividends throughout the season.

From unexpected play calls to unconventional formations, the coaching staff kept opponents guessing. Their ability to adapt and evolve was a key factor in the Saints' success, and it set them apart from other teams in the league.

Key Strategic Moves

Here are some of the coaching staff's most impactful strategic decisions:

• Utilizing Alvin Kamara in a variety of roles to maximize his versatility.
• Implementing a strong running game to complement the passing attack.
• Deploying aggressive defensive schemes to create turnovers.

These strategies were instrumental in the Saints' ability to dominate their opponents.

Legacy and Future Outlook

As we wrap up our look at the 2017 Saints coaching staff, it's important to consider their legacy and future impact. The