New Orleans, LA – May 21, 2025 – In a move that would send seismic waves through both the NFL and college football landscapes, sources close to the New Orleans Saints organization and the venerable Bob Stoops have indicated that the legendary former Oklahoma Sooners head coach has finally agreed to personal terms, paving the way for him to become the Saints’ next head coach. While official announcements are pending, the whispers that have long circulated regarding Stoops’ potential jump to the NFL appear to be on the cusp of becoming reality, potentially ushering in a new era for the beleaguered Saints.
This development comes amidst a flurry of recent activity surrounding the Saints’ coaching staff, with reports from earlier in the year confirming that Kellen Moore was hired as the Saints’ head coach in February 2025. This, however, indicates a potential dramatic shift, suggesting that Moore’s tenure, if it ever officially began as the permanent head coach, may have been remarkably short-lived or that there has been an unexpected change in direction.
The news, if confirmed, would represent a colossal paradigm shift for the Saints, a franchise that has struggled to find consistent success in the post-Sean Payton era. After a disappointing 2024 season that saw them finish with a 5-12 record, the organization has been actively seeking a figure to reignite the passion and winning culture that once defined the team.
Bob Stoops, who is currently the head coach of the Arlington Renegades in the UFL, brings an unparalleled resume of success from the collegiate ranks. Over 18 seasons as head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners (1999-2016), “Big Game Bob” amassed a remarkable 190-48 record, leading the Sooners to a national championship in 2000 and 10 Big 12 Conference titles. His tenure was marked by consistent dominance, innovative offenses, and a knack for developing NFL-caliber talent.
While Stoops has long been rumored for NFL coaching positions, he has steadfastly remained in the college game and, more recently, the spring professional leagues. His brief return to the Sooners as interim head coach in 2021, leading them to an Alamo Bowl victory, only reinforced his coaching acumen and ability to rally a team. His success with the Arlington Renegades, including an XFL Championship in 2023, further underscored his continued coaching prowess.
The allure of a potential Stoops-led Saints team is multifaceted. For the New Orleans faithful, it offers the promise of a proven winner with a strong leadership presence, a stark contrast to the transitional period the team has endured. Stoops’ reputation for instilling discipline, fostering a competitive environment, and developing players could be exactly what the Saints need to turn their fortunes around.
From a strategic standpoint, questions will naturally arise about how Stoops’ college-honed offensive and defensive philosophies will translate to the NFL. While he has always emphasized balanced attacks and aggressive defenses, the professional game demands a different level of complexity and adaptation. His most recent experience in the UFL, a league with NFL rule variations, may offer some insight into his adaptability.
The specifics of the personal terms are, as of now, under wraps. However, it’s widely speculated that a move of this magnitude would require a substantial financial commitment from the Saints, along with significant control over personnel decisions, allowing Stoops to shape the team in his vision. The Saints, under owner Gayle Benson and Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis, are known for their willingness to make bold moves in pursuit of success.
Sources indicate that the Saints’ brass conducted a thorough, yet discreet, search, evaluating a wide range of candidates. However, Stoops’ name consistently emerged as a top contender, with his track record of sustained excellence and his proven ability to build and maintain a winning culture making him an irresistible candidate. It appears that the Saints were willing to make an unprecedented offer to entice him away from his current role.
The NFL landscape has seen a growing trend of college coaches making the jump to the pros, with varying degrees of success. However, Stoops’ pedigree and his recent activity in the UFL suggest a coach who is still very much engaged and passionate about the game, and perhaps, finally ready for the ultimate challenge of leading an NFL franchise.
Should this exclusive report be officially confirmed, the implications for the New Orleans Saints are immense. It signals a clear intent from the organization to move aggressively and decisively to reclaim their place among the NFL’s elite. For the fans, it represents a surge of renewed hope, as “Big Game Bob” brings his winning mentality and a fresh perspective to the Superdome.
The football world now waits with bated breath for the official word from the New Orleans Saints. If the whispers are true, Bob Stoops is set to trade the crimson and cream for the black and gold, and the Big Easy might just be on the cusp of a truly exciting new chapter.
