Pressure Builds for NFL Team to Fire Head Coach Following Week 7 Game

Dennis Allen, head coach of the New Orleans Saints, is facing increasing pressure after a series of disappointing losses in the 2024 season.

Allen, who took over for longtime coach Sean Payton in February 2022, has yet to lead the Saints to a playoff appearance and his tenure has been marked by inconsistent performances, compiling an 18-23 record following a 9-8 season in 2023.

The Saints began the 2024 season with promise, starting 2-0, but have since suffered five consecutive defeats, leaving them at 2-5 after a crushing 33-10 loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 7.

The recent string of losses has sparked widespread speculation about Allen's future.

ESPN’s Dan Graziano, an NFL insider, commented on Allen's job security following Week 7, revealing that the pressure on the Saints’ coach is intensifying.

Specifically, Graziano said it was "not an overreaction" to suggest that Allen might be the next head coach fired, according to ESPN .

"Saints ownership likes Allen a lot and wants to see him succeed," Graziano added. "But given the roster and salary cap issues, as well as their long-term uncertainty at quarterback, this is absolutely a spot to watch for a potential coaching change at the end of the season, if not sooner. Allen's seat is scorching hot."

The Saints’ cap troubles are headlined by large financial commitments to key players like Alvin Kamara, Marshon Lattimore, and Derek Carr, according to information on OverTheCap.com

Despite efforts to navigate the cap, these big contracts add to the pressure on the franchise, forcing them to make tough decisions regarding the future direction of the team.

Allen’s challenge lies not only in the team’s on-field struggles but also in navigating a difficult roster situation and managing expectations following Payton’s long tenure.

The Saints’ offense has been inconsistent, and the defense—once a strong point under Allen’s leadership—has faltered in recent weeks, leading to questions about whether he can turn things around.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether the Saints make a change at head coach before it's too late.

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