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

Saints shut down Dolphins' pursuit of Sean Payton before his retirement

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 3/2/22

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.

Chris Grier said Dolphins did look into Sean Payton this cycle before he retired, but Saints did not grant permission to talk. He said there were never conversations with Jim Harbaugh.

— David Furones (@DavidFurones_) March 2, 2022

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

When inquiring about possibly hiring Sean Payton, the Dolphins called Saints assistant G.M. (and former Miami G.M.) Jeff Ireland, who told Miami, "Don't bother." https://t.co/IHMg9sfWxG

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 2, 2022

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.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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