Spags OUT - Acadiana's Multi-Media News Station

They had one of the worst defenses in the NFL this season.

They gave up more yards than any team in NFL history.

Now, the New Orleans Saints are making changes to their defensive coaching staff with the swift dismissal of Steve Spagnuolo.

Head coach Sean Payton, who returned to work this week after a season-long suspension, announced Thursday that Spagnuolo was being released.

Payton also fired special teams coordinator Ken Flajole.

The Saints went 7-9 this season and allowed 454 points; only Tennessee gave up more. New Orleans also yielded the most yards (7,042) ever in a single season

Payton said New Orleans will switch to a 3-4 defense in 2013 "and right now is the best time to accomplish this transition."