For years now New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton has been the subject of relocation rumors. Whether it be by firing, trade or his own design, the idea of Payton leaving the Saints has gained steam at some point or the other in the past few years. In an attempt to quell the rumors, Payton publicly announced for the umpteenth time that he sees himself coaching the Saints "long past this season."
Despite the repeated statements, the rumor mill continues to spin. NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, citing people close to Payton, said "never say never" when asked about Payton's potential departure. He went on to say that executives around the NFL believe Payton is "searching for a landing spot in case." If true, the San Diego Chargers head coaching position may be of particular interest to Payton, according to Rapoport.
He's not the only one jumping on the Payton rumor train. NFL Media's Albert Breer noted that "word has it" Payton is the frontrunner to land the Indianapolis Colts job, should Chuck Pagano be shown the door, or any team that moves to Los Angeles if he leaves the Saints. As things stand now, the Chargers are the most likely team to relocate to L.A. Though times have been rough lately, Payton would still have Philip Rivers to work with on the Chargers which is a better building block than some other QB-less teams.
The other candidates in the running for a new L.A. home are the Oakland Raiders and the St. Louis Rams. Jack Del Rio has made great strides in his first season with the Raiders so it is unlikely that they will have a coaching vacancy. The Rams have failed to live up to expectations yet again and may be parting ways with Jeff Fisher this offseason despite St. Louis' three straight wins. However, given the uncertainty under center, the Rams do not appear to be as attractive of an option.
Right now, Payton insists he isn't going anywhere. Should that stance change, though, he won't want for suitors.
