Saints Former Assistant Named USFL Head Coach

A former New Orleans assistant coach and highly successful NFL defensive coach named as a USFL head coach for the 2023 season.

Former New Orleans Saints assistant coach Mike Nolan has been named head coach of the USFL's Michigan Panthers, according to reports. Nolan replaces Jeff Fisher, who coached the Panthers last spring in the first season back of the USFL. The original USFL played from 1983 to 1985.

Michigan finished with a 2-8 record under Fisher in 2022. The original Panthers franchise won the inaugural USFL championship in 1983 and lost in the league's title game to the Philadelphia Stars the following season. They merged with the Oakland Invaders in 1985, the last year before the league folded.

Nolan, who turns 64 next month, was the Saints Linebackers Coach from 2017 to 2019. His father, Dick Nolan, was also head coach of the New Orleans Saints from 1978 to 1980 and led the franchise to their first ever non-losing season (8-8) in 1979.

Current New Orleans LB Demario Davis flourished under Mike Nolan upon his arrival in 2018. Nolan also developed helped other linebackers such as A.J. Klein and Alex Anzalone to the most productive years of their careers. 

Mike Nolan is a long-time NFL veteran. He was the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2005 to 2008 and has been a highly regarded defensive coordinator for the Giants, Redskins, Jets, Ravens, Dolphins, Broncos, Falcons, and most recently Dallas Cowboys. 

Jan 27, 2018; New Orleans Saints linebackers coach Mike Nolan during NFC practice for the 2018 Pro Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The USFL kicks off their second return season on April 15. They'll play a 10-game regular season with the league's eight teams.

Michigan will compete in the North Division with the Pittsburgh Maulers, New Jersey Generals, and 2022 league runner-up Philadelphia Stars. The South Division will feature 2022 USFL champion Birmingham Stallions, Houston Gamblers, Memphis Showboats, and New Orleans Breakers.