Tuesday marked the end of an era for the New Orleans Saints. Long-time head coach Sean Payton has stepped down after 15 seasons at the helm for the organization.
Sources: Sean Payton has informed the #Saints that he’s stepping away.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 25, 2022
This is an absolute shocker that no one expected. Payton had met with the Saints front office in recent days and didn't fully commit to returning, but it's important to note that he did have three years remaining on his current contract. That being said, he's sacrificing $45 million with this decision. There have been rumors that he could move into a media role, with at least one TV network approaching him for a new opportunity.
Saints owner Gayle Benson was asked on Monday about Payton's future with the organization and she honestly had no clue if he would be in charge again in 2022:
Saints owner Gayle Benson was asked about Sean Payton today @FOX8NOLA @oliviavidaltv pic.twitter.com/OyoYDjsqO0
— Sean FazendeFOX8 (@SeanFazendeFOX8) January 24, 2022
“We don't know. You know, who knows? We'll find out soon enough, I guess,” Benson said, laughing. “I don't think any of us know. But he'll let us know soon enough.”
This is quite the blow for the Saints, who just lost their franchise QB in Drew Brees last offseason and now, their HC is a goner as well. Recent reports claim that he wouldn't be interested in coaching another team at the moment, either.
Payton led the Saints to nine playoff appearances in 15 seasons and seven NFC South titles during that span.
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