Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) looks on before a wild card game against the Dallas Cowboys at Raymond James Stadium. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Rex Ryan links Tom Brady and Sean Payton to surprising NFC team

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 1/31/23

For some time, rumors have circulated that Tom Brady and Sean Payton could be a package deal this offseason. However, on Sunday, ESPN analyst and former head coach Rex Ryan linked the pair to a surprising NFC East squad.

When discussing possible destinations for Brady, Ryan said the seven-time Super Bowl champ and Payton could end up in D.C. with the Washington Commanders.

So many things would have to fall into place (basically over the next several days) for this to even be a possibility. Tom Brady and Sean Payton coming to DC would be wild. pic.twitter.com/JuXLT2FAKr
— A.J. Perez (@byajperez) January 29, 2023

While the idea of Brady and Payton going to the Commanders might seem wild, Ryan pointed to the uncertainty surrounding the franchise's ownership as a reason why it's possible.

"There's a strong possibility there's going to be a change in ownership, and when that happens, these owners aren't tied into that coach," Ryan said.

Earlier this week, Colin Cowherd speculated that Washington could be a destination for Payton.

Bringing in Payton would mean cutting ties with head coach Ron Rivera, who has transformed the team's culture amid scandals throughout the franchise under owner Dan Snyder. In December, the House Oversight Committee released a scathing report related to the handling of toxic workplace allegations against Snyder and the team's leadership.

It's hard to see the Commanders walking away from Rivera, but a new owner might want a fresh start on the sidelines. They also could wish to make a big splash to endear themselves to the fanbase, and adding Brady and Payton would undoubtedly accomplish that.

More must-reads: