The New Orleans Saints are spiraling, and the finger-pointing has officially begun. After a 2-5 start that has left fans frustrated and ownership restless, former Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu has dropped a bombshell: the players may have already checked out on head coach Kellen Moore.
Speaking on a podcast this week, Mathieu didn't mince words when assessing the effort level of his former teammates. "I'm hesitant to say it in this manner, but I don't think those boys are playing as hard as they can for Kellen Moore," he said. "I really don't see it."
The numbers back up his concern. The Saints are 8-16 under Moore since he took over in 2025, and Sunday's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers was a new low. New Orleans managed just 18 rushing yards on 17 carries, a stat that Mathieu found inexcusable.
"For Christ's sake, I took a pay cut three years in a row so they could find a way to pay offensive linemen that don't block, who don't make a difference," Mathieu continued. "17 runs, 18 yards. I don't care if you're playing backyard football, that's not a recipe for success."
Mathieu's comments echo a broader frustration among fans who have watched the Saints struggle to find any offensive rhythm. The offensive line, once a strength, has been a revolving door, and the running game has vanished entirely. It's a recipe for disaster, and it's put Moore squarely on the hot seat.
Just two weeks ago, owner Gayle Benson issued a stern warning to the entire organization. "Kellen Moore and his coaches are responsible for preparing our players to perform. Mickey Loomis and our football staff are responsible for building a roster capable of sustained success," she said. "Our players are responsible for their preparation and execution. I am responsible for holding this organization accountable."
The tension is palpable, and the Saints' upcoming schedule doesn't get any easier. With a road game against the Steelers in Paris on tap, the spotlight will be on how the team responds to the mounting criticism. If the effort doesn't improve, Moore could be coaching for his job in the coming weeks.
Mathieu's accusations of quitting are serious, and they raise questions about the locker room culture in New Orleans. While some players have publicly backed Moore, the on-field product tells a different story. A team that looks disinterested and uninspired is a dangerous sign for any coach.
The Saints are still mathematically alive in the NFC South, but at this rate, they're playing for pride more than playoffs. If Moore can't rally his troops, a coaching change might be the only answer. As Mathieu put it, the effort just isn't there.
For now, all eyes are on the Saints' next game, and whether the players will show up with the fire needed to turn the season around. If they don't, the calls for a new direction will only grow louder.
