Saints head coach Sean Payton reportedly has “sincere interest” in the Rams’ vacancy, and it appears the feeling is mutual. Los Angeles is likely to ask the Saints for their permission to speak with Payton during the upcoming week, reports Larry Holder of NOLA.com. Now, having just completed their third straight 7-9 season, the Saints would be open to trading Payton, a source told Holder.
If Saints general manager Mickey Loomis does deal Payton, it’s doubtful he’d seek a significant return. The Tom Benson-owned franchise would instead be content with freeing up the $40MM remaining on Payton’s contract. New Orleans hasn’t gotten bang for its buck from Payton lately, as it has missed the playoffs in four of the past five seasons.
Despite the Saints’ recent struggles, Payton’s tenure in the Big Easy has been a resounding success. The 53-year-old has led the team to a 94-65 record and five playoff berths in 10 seasons, and the crowning achievement during his run with the Saints is their Super Bowl victory to cap off the 2009 campaign. Of course, Payton also missed the 2012 season – in which New Orleans went 7-9 – after NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suspended him for his role in the Bountygate scandal.
Going forward, Payton’s commitment to the Saints is clearly up in the air. The offensive guru refused to provide any useful answers Sunday to reporters who asked him about status, instead replying, “Next question.” He also met with Loomis after the Saints’ season-ending loss to the Falcons to discuss his future, according to Holder. It now seems that future could be in Los Angeles, which would represent a homecoming for the California native.
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Nah they ain’t gettin rid of Payton
That would be an incredibly stupid move. If you want to trade, trade for an elite coach. Not one who won 1 Super Bowl because of Drew Brees and hasn’t done a thing since.
Actually, this is more than likely going to happen. Payton has fulfilled his obligations and what a better time and place to move forward who is still young as an NFL coach. I if Brees will seek to join him there in a move that will stabilize the QB position. These moves would save the Saints some big money depending on the contract settlement of Brees.
Would just be one more dumb thing Loomis has done and if trur I expect it to be the worst trade of all coaches which would be consistent with Loomis. Other coaching trades have brought multiple picks including first rounders and the rams don’t have a first rounder until 2018.
The article states the Saints aren’t asking for picks.
Just like the Rams to overpay for one less than mediocre HC and replace him with another way overpaid mediocrity.
Get rid of Snead and Demoff PLEASE.
How did a California kid end up playing football at Eastern Illinois? Home to another couple of famous NFL Qbs named…..?
Romo