METAIRIE, La. — New Orleans SaintsGayle Benson, the owner, acknowledged Monday that Sean Payton’s status for the 2022 season is still uncertain. She told reporters that she didn’t know but would let them know as soon as possible.
NFL Network reported Sunday, that Payton has not yet made a commitment to return to Saints coaching in 2022. ESPN was informed by sources that Payton has not yet made a definitive statement. However, he was expected back to work this week with the rest Saints coaching staff following a vacation last week.
Payton, who is 58 years old, is currently under contract through 2024. This means that a trade would be necessary to allow him to coach another team. Multiple outlets, including ESPN have reported that Payton has been viewed by several television networks as a potential candidate for coaching if he chooses to step down.
Benson, who was speaking in a Mardi Gras-related function, answered a question about Payton’s status by saying, “We don’t know. We don’t know. “I think we’ll find out very soon, I suppose.”
Payton doesn’t seem to be being pressured by the organization to make an immediate commitment. This allows him to take some time off after a long year.
With a record of 9-8 in 2021, the Saints missed the playoffs their first five seasons. It was one of Payton’s best coaching jobs, considering that quarterback Drew Brees retired; a roster that had been decimated by major injuries, salary cap cuts and COVID-19 problems; and a hurricane evacuation from Dallas in the first month.
Payton admitted how difficult the season was in Week 18.
“This stretch has been exhausting. But it’s one of those times where you just keep going. [next task]. Payton stated, “Nothing surprises you.” It feels like we were evacuated to Dallas in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey two and a quarter years ago, when you look back at the beginning of the season. It doesn’t seem like that’s part this season.
“I’m trying think of a way to explain it. You have a certain standard or temperament that news is expected to meet. Then, when the news keeps coming in via text or in meetings and it just keeps on coming, the bar is raised. You have to smile, bow down and be ready for the next challenge.
If Payton leaves, the Saints will likely look at Dennis Allen (defensive coordinator) and Pete Carmichael Jr. (offensive coordinator) as possible replacements. However, they may also consider other options.
According to Pro Football Reference Payton is tied 21st in NFL history, with 152 career victories. His career record is 152-199. (.631 winning percentage), excluding his 2012 season-long suspension. the league’s bounty investigation. Payton is currently 9-8 in postseason play, with the Super Bowl win in 2009.
Payton is also a great offensive mind in the league. According to the Elias Sports Bureau Payton and the Saints are first in NFL history for both yards gained (392.2) and points scored (26.6 per game), among all coach-team combinations that have at least five seasons.
Payton’s long-term success is a rare find in today’s NFL. Only the New England PatriotsBill Belichick has been with the team for longer than anyone else. Payton also had four seasons with Saints that saw him win 11 or more games in his second decade. Only three other coaches in the Super Bowl era have achieved this feat: Tom Landry (eight), Belichick (nine), Don Shula (6).