Sean Payton
While it’s tiresome to see so many retread coaches in the NFL, it’s also true that teams like the Kansas City Chiefs have struck it rich by convincing an experienced and accomplished head coach to come work for them. It just needs to be the right experienced and accomplished head coach and that’s what Sean Payton seems to be as he potentially re-enters the market.
Payton spent last season with the FOX NFL Sunday crew as a year away from the sidelines, but he clearly longs to return to a new head coaching role, as illustrated by his acceptance of interviews this winter. So far several teams have come calling and Payton should be the one head coaching candidate to have his pick of the litter.
Would Payton want to take over in Denver? He’s on the Broncos’ radar and interviewed last Tuesday and the results were reportedly positive. The Broncos (or any team) would have to trade for him since the Saints retain his contractual rights.
Why we’d rather not see him: Payton’s regular season record is 152-89, giving him a better win percentage than the likes of Sean McVay, Bill Walsh, Joe Gibbs, and Bill Cowher (and the same as Curly Lambeau). Even his postseason record is above .500 at 9-8. He brings Super Bowl experience to any locker room, and his offensive prowess keeps him relevant in today’s modern game. Remember, the Saints never had less than 7 wins with him at the helm.