The New Orleans Saints will not release head coach Sean Payton following the 2015 season, but, under the right set of circumstances, they could be willing to trade their head coach, according to Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports.
The Miami Dolphins, as well as other teams, are reportedly interested in Payton for 2016, but any team interested would likely have to give a strong offer if they wished to acquire the Super Bowl-winning head coach. Payton signed a contract extension in 2013, and his current contract runs through 2017. The Saint head coach is due to make $8 million a year the next couple seasons, but others teams won't shy away from him because of that.
For Payton to leave, he would have to agree with the situation, and he would probably only leave if the respective team had franchise quarterback in place. The Saints are currently 4-7 on the year, and outside of Payton and quarterback Drew Brees, the team looks nothing like the 2009 Super Bowl Champions.
Payton and GM Mickey Loomis reportedly have almost full control, as owner Tom Benson is dealing with health issues and is not currently making significant decisions, according to La Canfora. The Saints owner was found competent to run his organization this past summer by a New Orleans judge, as he has been battling with his family over his billion-dollar fortune, according to Katherine Sayre and Andy Grimm of the Times-Picayune. New Orleans clearly looks to be in rebuilding mode, and with their franchise quarterback turning 37 this offseason, the Saints could look to acquire some pieces in a trade with Payton. It will be interesting to see what New Orleans does this offseason, as there will be plenty of suitors seeking a Super Bowl-winning head coach like Payton.
