CONFIRMED: “He Has Done A Great Job”, New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson Announces A Two-Year Contract Extension with Darren Rizzi. Read more…

New Orleans, LA – In a move that reinforces the team’s commitment to stability and excellence, New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson has announced a two-year contract extension with Special Teams Coordinator Darren Rizzi. The extension ensures Rizzi’s continued leadership of the Saints’ special teams unit through the 2025 season.

“He has done a great job, and we’re excited to have him continue to lead our special teams unit,” Benson said in a statement. “Darren’s expertise and dedication have been invaluable to our team’s success, and we look forward to seeing his continued impact in the years to come.”

Rizzi, who joined the Saints in 2021, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s special teams unit into one of the NFL’s most formidable. Under his guidance, the Saints have consistently ranked among the league’s top special teams units, with significant improvements in kickoff and punt coverage, as well as kickoff and punt return.

“I’m grateful to Mrs. Benson and the entire Saints organization for their trust in me,” Rizzi said. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and I’m excited to continue working with our talented players and coaches to achieve even greater success.”

The contract extension is a testament to the Saints’ commitment to continuity and stability, particularly on the coaching staff. With Rizzi’s extension, the Saints have ensured that their special teams unit will remain a strength for years to come.

As the Saints prepare for the upcoming season, fans can take comfort in knowing that Rizzi’s expertise will continue to shape the team’s special teams unit. With this extension, the Saints have sent a clear message: they’re committed to winning, and they’re willing to invest in the people who can help them achieve that goal.

– Darren Rizzi’s special teams units have ranked among the NFL’s top 10 in kickoff return average (2021, 2022) and punt coverage (2022).
– Under Rizzi’s guidance, the Saints have improved their kickoff coverage unit from 26th in 2020 to 5th in 2022.
– Rizzi has coached in the NFL for over 15 years, with stints as a special teams coordinator for the Miami Dolphins (2011-2018) and New Orleans Saints (2021-present).