Kristian: No way Pete Carmichael is leaving the Saints
by Kristian Garic
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posted Jan 17 2013 4:06PM
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So, Jacksonville and Philly have reportedly asked the Saints for permission to talk to Pete Carmichael, the Black & Gold's Offensive Coordinator. While that might make Who Dats nervous, given the exit of offensive line coach Aaron Kromer this week, there's no way Carmichael is going to take a gig as OC of the Eagles or Jaguars.
Carmichael is a free agent, and is being pursued by those two teams to take over their OC roles. Now, losing Carmichael WOULD be a huge hit to the Saints. It would mean two vacancies on the most prolific side of the football. He's been a major factor in the team's success over the last five years.
But, he's not going anywhere. It would be a lateral move, for one thing. Kromer took a major promotion in going to the Bears, but Carmichael would be leaving the Saints as OC to go to another program for exactly the same job.
Plus, Carmichael has a long-term relationship with Drew Brees that predates his time in New Orleans. Keep in mind, he was the QB coach when Drew was in San Diego. I have no doubt Drew had a hand in bringing him to New Orleans.
I just can't see him leaving such a solid organization to essentially start over in another city. Here, he's got a Hall of Fame QB and a head coach he's extremely familiar with. All the pieces are in place for Pete Carmichael to stay, as things stand how.
Now, the only possible fly in the ointment: There is still a head coaching vacancy with the Cardinals. Should Arizona approach him, that would in all likelihood be a much different conversation. But, as it stands, I think it's more than a safe bet that he'll be back with the Saints for some time to come.
Photo: Michael Hebert, New Orleans Saints
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