Brief

Brandon Staley pushes back on Troy Aikman's criticism after Saints' loss

Staley said Aikman's remarks were inaccurate and highlighted injuries that hampered the Saints' defense.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 09 Oct 2026 10:22:22 GMT

New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley said Troy Aikman's comments that he "didn't have any answers" on defense were "not true" after the Saints fell 45‑24 to the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night, Bleacher Report reported.

What happened

The Falcons amassed 420 total yards, including 145 rushing yards and two touchdowns by running back Bijan Robinson. The Saints were missing edge‑rushers Carl Granderson and Anfernee Jennings and linebacker Kaden Elliss, while Pete Werner played through a stinger.

What was said

Staley told reporters, "I have no idea what Aikman was talking about and refuted the comments because they're not true," and added, "I'm responsible, I'm calling the defense, but we've got a great group of guys." Aikman, speaking for ESPN, said, "Staley, he just simply doesn't have any answers. I think he knew it when we talked to him coming in," and noted the Saints' lack of edge‑rushers and star defenders.

How it came about

Staley pointed to a fourth‑down defensive holding penalty early in the game that sparked the Falcons' first scoring drive, saying the penalty changed the momentum and the team never regained its defensive rhythm.

Key facts

The Saints lost 45‑24 to the Falcons on Monday night. (bleacherreport.com)
Staley said Troy Aikman's criticism was "not true". (bleacherreport.com)
Bijan Robinson rushed for 145 yards and two touchdowns. (bleacherreport.com)
Saints were missing edge‑rushers Carl Granderson and Anfernee Jennings. (bleacherreport.com)
A defensive holding penalty on fourth down shifted momentum early. (bleacherreport.com)