Not necessarily retiring, but taking a break
I can confirm via source that Sean Payton is stepping away from coaching. Press conference expected this afternoon. Payton is not necessarily permanently retiring but deciding to take a break after 16 years as Saints coach. No word yet on immediate plans, though sources have told ESPN TV networks are interested. Payton under contract through 2024 so another team would have to trade for him. (Mike Triplett on Twitter)
Nerdy Football Analysis: Sounds like Payton needs a break. It won’t surprising to see him take a year off, show up on TV during Sunday’s, then get back into coaching the Saints (or somewhere else) for the 2023 season. New Orleans has plenty of issues on offense, including Michael Thomas’ ongoing health issues and a question mark at the quarterback position.