The Return to New Orleans

When Kellen Moore took over as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints in 2025, he brought with him two familiar faces: Chase Haslett and Terry Joseph. Both coaches had deep roots in Louisiana, but their paths back to the Saints were shaped by the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.

The Haslett Legacy

Chase Haslett, son of former Saints head coach Jim Haslett, had lived in New Orleans during two pivotal periods in the team's history. His first stint was as a toddler when his father served as the defensive coordinator under Jim Mora in the mid-90s. The family returned in 2000 when Jim was named head coach, only to leave again after his dismissal following the 2005 season. For Chase, returning to the Saints as the tight ends coach was a full-circle moment.

Terry Joseph's Journey

Terry Joseph, a New Orleans native, had coached at Destrehan High School before Hurricane Katrina forced him to leave the state. Despite a brief return to Louisiana Tech, Joseph spent most of his coaching career outside of Louisiana. His return to the Saints as the defensive pass game coordinator marked a homecoming that was years in the making.

The Aftermath of Katrina

Hurricane Katrina, which made landfall on August 29, 2005, was one of the deadliest and costliest storms in U.S. history. The Saints were forced to evacuate and set up operations in San Antonio for the 2005 season. The Superdome, which had been used as a shelter of last resort, sustained significant damage and was unusable for months.

Reflections on the Storm

Both Haslett and Joseph reflected on how Katrina changed their lives and ultimately led them back to New Orleans. "When you can look back on it and what the organization had to go through ... it's a unique situation and I think it brings people closer together," Joseph said.

The Saints' Resilience

The Saints' resilience in the face of adversity became a symbol of hope for the city of New Orleans. Despite the challenges, the team returned to the Superdome in 2006 and eventually went on to win the Super Bowl in 2009.

A New Chapter

For Chase Haslett and Terry Joseph, returning to the Saints was more than just a career move. It was a chance to give back to the city that had shaped them and to be part of a team that had become a beacon of hope for New Orleans.

The Future of the Saints

As the Saints look to the future, the lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina continue to resonate. The storm not only changed the lives of those who lived through it but also shaped the identity of the team and the city it represents.

Conclusion

The story of Chase Haslett and Terry Joseph is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of sports to bring people together. Their journey back to New Orleans is a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, there is always hope for a brighter future.