NFL
What's next for Sean Payton?
The head coach of the New Orleans Saints is stepping away after 15 years. His future is unclear, but it sounds like he's not done with football just yet.
New Orleans head coach Sean Payton is stepping away from the team after a successful 15-year run. During his tenure with the team, the Saints went to the playoffs nine times, won Super Bowl 44, and won seven NFC South titles.
His leaving comes at a tough time for the Saints, who will be dealing with salary cap issues this offseason, currently $74 million over the cap. Not to mention, they have no solution at quarterback after Ben Roethlisberger announced he will retire.
What lies ahead for Payton?
Payton hasn't ruled out coaching again in his future, but said that it's not likely to be this year. "That's not where my heart is right now," said the 58-year old.
He hinted at another avenue, saying that "you don't want to ever regret relative to another challenge." Could it be a possible new career (temporary or not) as a broadcaster? According to Front Office Sports' writer Michael McCarthy, Fox is already looking at Payton as a potential to replace Troy Aikman if he leaves in 2022.
One thing is certain, though. Payton isn't ready to hang up his boots and sit on a golf course all day, living a football-free life. It sounds more like he just needs a bit of a break.
"I still have a vision for doing things in football," Payton said. "Retirement, I don't think is the right word today."