The new offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints, Klint Kubiak, is bringing Rick Dennison back into the coaching fold after a two-year absence from the league. Dennison will take on the role of run-game coordinator on offense for the Saints. This move indicates a strong connection between Dennison and Klint Kubiak, suggesting a certain offensive strategy for the team.
Dennison, 65 years old, has a rich history working with coaches like Gary Kubiak and Mike Shanahan, who have been influential in shaping successful NFL offenses. He has served as an offensive coordinator four times in the past, but it’s likely that his days in that role are behind him. However, his decision to join Klint Kubiak in New Orleans gives insight into the offensive approach the Saints may adopt.
Dennison previously worked with both Klint Kubiak and his father Gary Kubiak in Minnesota, where he was the offensive line coach and run-game coordinator from 2019 to 2020 before transitioning to a senior offensive assistant role in 2021.
During Mike Shanahan’s tenure as head coach of the Denver Broncos, Dennison served as his assistant for 14 years. He was part of the coaching staff when the Broncos had a dominant offensive line that contributed to the success of running back Terrell Davis. Dennison later became the offensive coordinator for the Broncos in 2006 before reuniting with Gary Kubiak in Houston in 2010.
Dennison’s coaching experience includes winning three Super Bowl rings during his time with the Broncos, including one as Gary Kubiak’s offensive coordinator in 2015. He also had a stint as the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills in 2017, where the team ranked 22nd offensively but excelled in rushing yards.
In 2021, Dennison faced criticism for refusing to be vaccinated against COVID-19, which led to the Minnesota Vikings reassigning him from his role as offensive line coach. Despite this controversy, the Saints have chosen to bring him on board as their run-game coordinator.
Additionally, the Saints have hired Derrick Foster as their running backs coach and recently interviewed Keith Williams for the wide receivers coach position. Foster previously worked for the Los Angeles Chargers, while Williams has experience with the Baltimore Ravens and Fresno State University.
