It’s a pivotal week for the Boise State football faithful and fans of the New Orleans Saints alike, as two of the most influential figures in recent college and professional football history find themselves at the center of major headlines. Kellen Moore, the iconic Boise State quarterback and current head coach of the New Orleans Saints, finds his name on the College Football Hall of Fame ballot for a stunning fifth consecutive year. Meanwhile, his former college coach, Chris Petersen—affectionately known as 'Coach Pete'—joins him among the nominees for the first time, raising hopes that this year could finally be the one where both blue-and-orange legends receive their long-overdue recognition.
But the stories swirling around Moore don’t end with Hall of Fame ballots. Down in New Orleans, where Moore recently took the reins as head coach, the Saints are grappling with a whirlwind of offseason rumors, roster shakeups, and the emergence of promising rookie talent. With speculation about a potential blockbuster trade involving star receiver A.J. Brown, and with the Eagles parting ways with their offensive coordinator after a disappointing campaign, the NFL’s coaching carousel and player market are in full spin. Let’s dive into the details, the drama, and the dazzling achievements that have everyone talking.
Kellen Moore: The Winningest Quarterback Still Waits
It’s almost hard to believe: Kellen Moore, the winningest quarterback in college football history, is still waiting for that elusive call from the College Football Hall of Fame. As of January 13, 2026, Moore has been nominated for the honor five years in a row without induction. Boise State fans are, understandably, a little salty. Moore’s resume is nothing short of legendary—he posted a jaw-dropping 50-3 record as Boise State’s starting quarterback over four seasons. That’s not just impressive; it’s historic.
Moore’s name is etched all over the NCAA record books. He ranks second in all-time passing touchdowns, third in passing efficiency, and fifth in career passing yardage. Each year, more than 70 athletes find their names on the ballot, but few can match Moore’s statistical dominance and the transformative impact he had on Boise State’s rise to national prominence.
“What’s the hold up!?” That’s the question echoing throughout Boise and beyond. Fans and pundits alike are baffled. This year, though, feels different. With Coach Pete joining Moore on the ballot, the narrative has shifted. As the source put it, “We think that this year is the PERFECT YEAR to get them both in.”
Chris Petersen Joins the Hall of Fame Conversation
Chris Petersen, the architect behind Boise State’s most magical moments—including the unforgettable 2007 Fiesta Bowl upset of Oklahoma—has finally joined Moore as a nominee. Petersen’s coaching acumen and the culture he built in Boise are widely credited with propelling the program to national relevance. The partnership between Moore and Petersen was, in many ways, the heart of Boise State’s golden era.
The hope is that Hall of Fame voters will recognize not just the individual brilliance of Moore and Petersen, but also the synergy they shared. Their nomination together is a testament to the enduring legacy of Boise State football during the late 2000s and early 2010s.
Moore’s NFL Coaching Journey: From Dallas to New Orleans
While the Hall of Fame considers Moore’s college exploits, his post-Boise career has continued to impress. Moore quickly transitioned from playing to coaching, earning a reputation as one of the brightest young minds in the NFL. He’s served on coaching staffs in Dallas, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia—where he played a crucial role in the Eagles’ 2025 Super Bowl run—before landing his current gig as head coach of the Saints in New Orleans.
These professional accomplishments won’t factor into Hall of Fame voting, but they certainly add to the mystique. Moore’s meteoric rise in the coaching ranks has only intensified calls for his induction: “These accomplishments post-college aren’t taken into consideration of course—but come on, voters!”
Saints’ Rookie Kelvin Banks Jr. Shines Bright
Moore’s arrival in New Orleans has coincided with the emergence of rookie left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. Banks has been a bright spot for the Saints, showing poise and power in his first NFL season. His ability to neutralize top defenders—like New York Giants standout Brian Burns—has given the Saints’ offense a foundation to build upon.
As of January 12, 2026, Banks’ performance has given Saints fans a reason to believe in a brighter future. While the Saints are still rebuilding, the presence of young talent like Banks, combined with Moore’s innovative approach, has injected new energy into the franchise.
A.J. Brown Trade Rumors: Fact or Fiction?
No NFL offseason is complete without trade rumors, and this year’s hottest topic is the potential departure of A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles. Brown, a recent Super Bowl champion, multi-time Pro Bowler, and All-Pro, has reportedly played his last snap with the Eagles. The connection to Kellen Moore in New Orleans has fueled speculation that Brown could be headed to the Saints.
But is such a move even possible—or wise? Brown’s recent heated argument with Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has raised concerns about his locker room fit. As one analysis points out, “Chris Olave’s presence isn’t likely to help Brown’s desire for more targets, so the same drama that’s happening in Philly right now is probable to happen again in New Orleans.”
Even if the Saints were interested, the financial realities are daunting. Brown’s contract carries about four years and $113 million in guaranteed money. Trading him before June 1 would saddle the Eagles with a $43.5 million dead cap hit in 2026—one of the largest in NFL history. As it stands, “Whether he likes it or not, Brown might still be in Philadelphia next season.”
Eagles Tackle Coaching Turnover After Moore’s Departure
Meanwhile, the Eagles are navigating their own transition. On January 13, 2026, head coach Nick Sirianni announced the team is moving on from offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo after just one season. Patullo had stepped in following Moore’s departure to New Orleans, but the offense never found its rhythm, finishing 24th in total offense and 19th in scoring. Sirianni acknowledged the challenges, stating, “He is a great coach who has my utmost respect. He has been integral to this team’s success over the last five years, not only to the on-field product but behind scenes as a valued leader for our players and organization.”
The Eagles will now seek their fifth offensive coordinator in six seasons, underscoring the instability that has plagued the team since Moore’s exit. The search for continuity—and a return to offensive firepower—remains a top priority in Philadelphia.
What’s Next for Moore, Petersen, and the Saints?
As Hall of Fame voters deliberate, Boise State fans wait with bated breath. Will this finally be the year Kellen Moore and Chris Petersen receive the recognition they so richly deserve? Down in New Orleans, Moore is busy laying the groundwork for a new era—bolstered by rookie standouts and undeterred by swirling trade rumors. One thing’s for sure: whether on the blue turf of Boise, the sidelines of the Superdome, or in the halls of football immortality, the legacies of Moore and Petersen continue to shape the game.
