Sean Payton’s plans for the future remain unclear, and Saints owner Gayle Benson is among those hoping for clarity from the coach.
Payton has not committed to returning to the team next season, according to a report by NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport, who indicated Payton was approached by a television network about switching to broadcast.
The Saints coach was reportedly on vacation and “vanished” from several people close to him as he decided to take a year off from coaching.
Saints reporter Nick Underhill said Payton returned to the team facility. Monday afternoon after taking time off at the end of the regular season.
Asked Monday about Payton’s status, Benson responded with a laugh: “We don’t know. Who knows? We’ll find out soon enough, I guess. I don’t think any of us know, but he’ll let us know.” early”. enough.”
Rapoport’s report isn’t the only rumor circulating about the 58-year-old’s future with the Saints. Front Office Sports reported that Fox Sports is eyeing Payton as a potential replacement for Troy Aikman if the former Cowboys quarterback leaves the network.
“Payton is an offensive genius, and now the NFL is all about offense.” an anonymous source told Front Office Sports. “Plus, he’s young enough to do TV for a few years, recharge his batteries, and then go back to training if he wants to.”
The Saints finished the 2021 season 9-8 and failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Despite rumors of his possible departure as head coach, Payton still has three years left on his contract with New York. Orleans and would collect about $45 million if he completes the deal.