The Saints had mixed in some 3-4 looks and appear to have the personnel to make the switch.

2011 first-round pick Cameron Jordan played in a 3-4 defense at Cal and would make a good "5" technique end. Veteran Brodrick Bunkley played nose tackle during his brief stint with the Denver Broncos and could play the nose if the team is unable to re-sign Sedrick Ellis, who is an unrestricted free agent this offseason. 2012 third-round pick Akiem Hicks is 6-foot-5 and 318 pounds and could play multiple spots in a 3-4 front and 2011 third-round pick Martez Wilson has been miscast as a 4-3 defensive end and could benefit by a move to rush linebacker in the new system.

Not all of the current Saints will fit in with the new defense. Veteran defensive end Will Smith is 6-foot-3 and 282 pounds and is better suited to play in a 4-3. Smith will turn 32 before training camp and the move to a 3-4, along with his hefty contract ($10.15 million due in cash, $14.541 million cap number), could hasten his exit from New Orleans.

Ryan had been closely linked to the position, but was not the only candidate. University of Georgia defensive coordinator Todd Grantham interviewed for the position before withdrawing his name from consideration on Friday.

The son of Buddy Ryan, and the twin brother of New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan, Rob Ryan has been defensive coordinator with the Oakland Raiders (2004-08), Cleveland Browns (2009-10) and Dallas Cowboys. Under Ryan, the Cowboys ranked 14th in total defense in 2011 and were 19th during a 2012 season where several key players - Jay Ratliff, DeMarcus Ware and Sean Lee - had injury-plagued seasons. Cowboys outside linebacker Anthony Spencer blossomed under Ryan, posting a career-high 11 sacks in 2012. Spencer is an unrestricted free agent and could be an option for the Saints if he hits the open market on March 12.