Benson puts Saints leadership on notice after 1-4 start

Gayle Benson publicly challenged the Saints’ performance Tuesday, accepting responsibility for the organization’s 1-4 start and telling a New Orleans audience that the team’s results fall below the standard its fans deserve.

Speaking at the Greater New Orleans Quarterback Club, Benson said she would make the decisions needed to improve the team. Her speech named head coach Kellen Moore, general manager Mickey Loomis and the players as responsible for preparation, roster building and execution, with the owner responsible for holding the organization accountable.

Benson did not announce a coaching dismissal, a front-office change or a specific personnel decision. The message was a public demand for better performance as the Saints prepare to visit the Giants on Sunday.

The address came during the franchise’s 60th season. Benson discussed the connection between the Saints and generations of local fans, then pointed to the standards of preparation and accountability associated with Drew Brees. The team honored Brees in its Ring of Honor on Sunday.

New Orleans has lost three straight games, most recently 23-13 to Minnesota. Benson also addressed the disappointment of losing this season’s anniversary game to Atlanta while the Saints marked 20 years since returning to the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina.

The owner’s speech connected those commemorations to the current team’s responsibility. She said fan confidence would have to be restored through performance, with a response on the field still to come.

Sources

Full speech: Benson assigns responsibility across Saints organization · NFL: Benson calls Saints’ current performance unacceptable