By Sunday 
A wave of coaching changes reshapes the NFC landscape
The NFC coaching carousel is in full motion, with several teams making key hires to strengthen their staff. From the Saints bringing in a familiar name to the Lions making a strategic backfield move, the latest changes reflect a mix of experience, continuity, and fresh perspectives.
Saints Welcome Chase Haslett, Reinforce Coaching Stability
The New Orleans Saints are keeping things in the family—sort of. Chase Haslett, son of former Saints head coach Jim Haslett, is joining the team as the new tight ends coach. His father led the Saints from 2000 to 2005, guiding them to their first-ever playoff victory. Now, Chase, after spending time with the Cowboys’ coaching staff, gets his first position-coaching role in New Orleans.
His arrival reunites him with new Saints head coach Kellen Moore, under whom he worked in Dallas. Haslett was instrumental in developing tight ends like Dalton Schultz and Jake Ferguson, a skill set that could benefit the Saints as they revamp their offense.
The Saints are also bringing back Brendan Nugent to oversee the offensive line. Having previously served in this role from 2015 to 2021, Nugent’s familiarity with the system and personnel provides continuity. Wide receivers coach Keith Williams is also staying put, ensuring some stability within the offensive staff.
Lions Land Tashard Choice to Elevate Their Running Game
In a strategic hire, the Detroit Lions have brought in Tashard Choice as their new running backs coach. The former NFL running back and Georgia Tech assistant was a key figure in Jahmyr Gibbs’ collegiate development. Now, he reunites with Gibbs in Detroit, aiming to elevate an already dominant ground attack.
The Lions boasted one of the league’s most potent rushing duos last season with Gibbs and David Montgomery. Choice’s influence could refine their approach, maximizing the duo’s effectiveness.
Additionally, Detroit is shifting Scottie Montgomery from running backs coach to wide receivers coach, replacing Antwaan Randle El, who joined the Bears. This move adds another layer of intrigue, as Montgomery has not coached receivers in the NFL since his days in Pittsburgh, where he worked with stars like Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders.
Falcons Promote T.J. Yates to Pass-Game Coordinator
The Atlanta Falcons are betting on continuity by promoting T.J. Yates to pass-game coordinator while keeping him as quarterbacks coach. Yates, a former NFL quarterback himself, was instrumental in guiding Atlanta’s passing attack last season.
With the Falcons parting ways with Kirk Cousins and moving forward with Michael Penix Jr., Yates’ role becomes even more critical. His ability to develop young quarterbacks will be tested as the franchise transitions into a new offensive era.
Cowboys Bring in JJ Clark for Defensive Support
On the defensive side, the Dallas Cowboys have added JJ Clark in a quality control role. Clark, who most recently served as UTEP’s defensive coordinator, will now work under new Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer.
While UTEP’s defense struggled statistically, Clark’s experience in various coaching roles makes him a valuable addition to a Dallas team looking to regain defensive dominance. His work behind the scenes could play a crucial role in helping the Cowboys maintain their edge in a competitive NFC East.
Final Thoughts
The NFC’s latest coaching shuffle reflects a blend of legacy, familiarity, and new challenges. The Saints are banking on Haslett’s potential, the Lions are reuniting Choice with Gibbs, the Falcons are putting their faith in Yates, and the Cowboys are adding defensive depth with Clark. As these changes take effect, their impact on the upcoming season will be worth watching.