Franklin Turns Down Saints’ Job; George Gets Waived by the Falcons

The shakeup of the New Orleans Saints’ coaching staff continued Tuesday after Chet Franklin, the team’s director of pro personnel, turned down the interim head coaching job.

One day after coach Jim Mora resigned, his offensive coordinator, Carl Smith, was fired by General Manager Bill Kuharich, who confirmed he had offered the job of interim head coach to Franklin.

“He felt it would not be in the best interest for him to take the job,” Kuharich said.

Franklin said he did not believe he was the man to ensure a smooth transition for the remaining eight games.

“I didn’t feel like I was going to be that effective.” Franklin said.

Several assistant coaches declined comment on the job having been offered to Franklin. But tight ends coach Bruce Arians acknowledged there had been no outpouring of enthusiasm among the staff for the choice.

“It’s nothing against Chet. We all like him and respect him. I think we just all felt the new guy would come from one of the coaches,” Arians said.

Kuharich said he expects to name an interim coach this morning, before players report to begin preparation for the Nov. 2 game against the San Francisco 49ers. The team has a bye this week.

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The Atlanta Falcons waived goodbye to a disenchanted Jeff George, ending a stormy relationship that led to the quarterback’s suspension, then his release.

After 4 p.m. today, George is an unrestricted free agent. But any team claiming George on waivers assumes the remaining share of his $3.6-million salary--about $1.9 million.

“There really aren’t any options,” said Coach June Jones, who suspended George for conduct detrimental to the team after a sideline tirade Sept. 22.

Leigh Steinberg, George’s agent, said he fears his client’s salary may prevent him from getting signed.

“Our assumption is that no one will claim him [immediately],” Steinberg said. “Then, in one or two days, we’ll talk to different teams. Jeff would like to play the remainder of the season.”

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New York Giant defensive tackle Keith Hamilton had arthroscopic surgery to remove torn cartilage from his left knee and will be sidelined for at least three weeks.