Saints owner Gayle Benson calls 1-4 start unacceptable, demands improvement

Benson demands a response

New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson called the team's 1-4 start “not acceptable” in remarks Tuesday at the Greater New Orleans Quarterback Club. Her criticism followed a three-game losing streak. CBS Sports+2

“As an owner, the responsibility does start with me,” Benson said. “I will not make excuses, and I will not accept this level of performance as our standard.” She said everyone in the organization understands the urgency to improve preparation, execution and mistakes. CBS Sports+1

“Words will not restore our fans' confidence,” she said. “Our performance must do that.” CBS Sports+2

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Accountability across the organization

Benson explicitly identified coach Kellen Moore and his staff as responsible for preparing players, and general manager Mickey Loomis and the football staff as responsible for building a roster capable of sustained success. She also said players are accountable for their preparation and execution. ESPN+1

The Saints are 7-15 since Moore took over before the 2025 season. Loomis has been general manager since 2002, and the team has not reached the playoffs since 2020. ESPN

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Losses on milestone nights

Benson described the Week 4 loss to the Atlanta Falcons as “truly disappointing” because it came during celebrations of the 20th anniversary of the Saints' return to the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina. New Orleans lost that game by 21 points. CBS Sports+1

The Saints then lost to the Minnesota Vikings on a night when Drew Brees was honored at halftime. Benson said the best way to honor his legacy was to uphold his standards today. ESPN

“We cannot change the results of our first five games,” Benson said. “We are responsible for what we do next.” CBS Sports+1

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