Sean Payton would return to coaching for 'right situation'

Former New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton. Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports

Sean Payton would return to coaching 'if the right situation presented itself'

By Eric Smithling | Last updated 9/21/22

On the NewOrleans.Football Podcast on Wednesday, former Saints head coach Sean Payton opened up about his future in the NFL, revealing his return to the sideline may happen sooner rather than later.

While at first talking about how much he enjoys his current job as a FOX NFL analyst, Payton also admitted he would consider a return "if the right situation presented itself."

In January, when he announced he was stepping down as Saints coach, Payton said he didn't consider it his retirement.

NFL insider Jason La Canfora tweeted at the time that his source described Payton's move as "not [a retirement] per se but ... a break from coaching," and that a second stint as an NFL head coach could be in play down the line.

Sean Payton is stepping aside from the Saints according to a source with knowledge of the situation. He is not retiring per se but is taking a break from coaching. As previously reported several networks are pursuing him. A return to coaching at some point is possible
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) January 25, 2022

But it wasn't until he answered questions Wednesday that Payton indicated just how soon he may consider a return to action.

Will Sean Payton coach in 2023? He joined me and @MikeTriplett to discuss his present, future and what he sees from the Saints on today's podcast.https://t.co/YptBk7Eckv pic.twitter.com/1sqJSodpFI
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) September 21, 2022

It's worth noting that Payton is under contract with the Saints through 2024, so if the "right situation" were to present itself this offseason, whoever comes to terms with the Super Bowl-winning head coach must deal with the Saints first to land him.

Sean Payton is under contract through 2024 with the #Saints. If another team wanted to swoop it, they would need to compensate New Orleans. But that’s a conversation for next offseason. https://t.co/7v8gr8GW0c
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 25, 2022

The Saints aren't getting any younger or less expensive, so landing a trove of draft capital could be Payton's last gift to New Orleans.

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