Former New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Dolphins made a run at hiring Sean Payton away from the New Orleans Saints, but their efforts were denied.

Speaking with reporters from the NFL Scouting Combine on Wednesday, Dolphins general manager Chris Grier confirmed a rumor that the team had interest in Payton.

Grier says the Dolphins checked with the Saints for permission to talk with Payton prior to the coach stepping away.

Saints assistant GM apparently told the Dolphins “don’t bother.”

Payton ended up stepping away from football and has interest in a possible TV job.

Miami’s interest in Payton came as part of a rumored two-part master plan that also involved Tom Brady. Grier denied having contact with Brady, who retired last month.

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