A report on Sunday claimed there is a rift so bad between New Orleans coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan that Ryan isn't expected to return next season. Payton, though, dismissed the report and indicated he didn't want a new defensive coordinator.
The relationship between Payton and Ryan reportedly is on the rocks, according to Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports.
Per La Canfora:
"The relationship between Saints head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has been rapidly deteriorating this season, with it privately acknowledged within the team's headquarters that the men strongly dislike each other and a change is inevitable this offseason.
There have been several animated sideline discussions between them, including again in Monday night's defeat, and sources said that is reflection of their growing disconnect and contempt that has been obvious to many within the team for quite some time. Ryan is generally well liked within the team, but Payton demands much from his coordinators and assistants and the defense has regressed rapidly this season (albeit with injuries and personnel deficiencies clearly part of the problem as well)."
La Canfora also said several sources used the word "hate" to describe the relationship between Payton and Ryan.
Bleacher Reports' Mike Freeman confirmed the story.
"Source on Saints says Payton-Rob Ryan rift story is 'very accurate,'" Freeman tweeted Sunday. "Says been brewing for some time, worse than people know."
Payton, however, refuted the reports.
#Saints Payton attacking the "Sunday splash reports" said his relationship with Rob Ryan is outstanding, not interested in Ray Rice ...
— Mike Triplett (@MikeTriplett) November 30, 2014
#Saints Payton with strong, passionate support for Rob Ryan. Said he works til crickets are out. Loves how he's handled adversity ... — Mike Triplett (@MikeTriplett) November 30, 2014
#Saints Payton on yelling with Ryan after 12 men penalty. Says that's him, pick a coach. Doesn't mean he wants a new coordinator.
— Mike Triplett (@MikeTriplett) November 30, 2014
Ryan is in his second season as the team's defensive coordinator. Although the Saints' defense improved under him last season, the defense has regressed this season and is giving up 377 yards per game, which ranks them 24th in the league.
