Gayle Benson shows up at Saints practice to back Kellen Moore days after calling a 1-4 start unacceptable

Gayle Benson let her actions do the talking this time.

Days after she publicly criticized the team's start, the New Orleans Saints owner made a surprise appearance at Friday's practice, embraced coach Kellen Moore and offered him her endorsement. People who know her message say Benson supports Moore and his staff and that no coaching change appears to be coming soon.

Strong words on Tuesday

Benson spoke to the Greater New Orleans Quarterback Club on Tuesday and told fans she shared their frustration.

"We are 1-4 and that is not acceptable to me and falls short of what our fans truly deserve," Benson said. "I hear the frustration toward our team and our organization. It is not lost on me."

"Words will not restore our fans' confidence," she said. "Our performance must do that."

A three-game slide

After a promising start, the Saints have lost three straight games. Their defense entered Sunday ranked 25th in the NFL and has allowed 30.2 points per game, the second most in the league. Second-year quarterback Tyler Shough and the offense have committed eight turnovers during the skid.

Injuries have piled up too. First-round rookie receiver Jordyn Tyson has not played because of a hamstring injury. Running back Travis Etienne and left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. are both on injured reserve.

High hopes for Year 2

Moore is in his second season. The Saints went 6-11 in his first year but won five of their last eight games, which raised expectations for this fall.

General manager Mickey Loomis said in January that the goal was to "win the division, be dominant and have a chance to make a run for the playoffs."

The Saints play the New York Giants at noon Central on Sunday.