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Sean Payton announced his retirement in one of the most shocking moves of the NFL offseason so far. He was the head coach of the New Orleans Saints for the last 15 seasons, having an impressive 161-97 overall record and also winning a Super Bowl ring.
Since his retirement announcement, there have been rumours that he may just be taking some time off before seeking new head coaching opportunities in the future.
While he is still under contract until the conclusion of the 2024 NFL season, the Saints could potentially trade him to a different team before then.
Here are three potential destinations for Sean Payton.
#1 Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins reportedly put in a request to interview Sean Payton during the 2022 NFL offseason. The Saints organization ultimately declined their request.
It was rumored that the Dolphins were ready to offer Payton $100 million and make him the highest-paid head coach of all time.
After the Saints denied their request, the Dolphins decided to hire Mike McDaniel as their new head coach. McDaniel had previously served as the offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers.
If the first-time head coach doesn't work out, the Dolphins could potentially pursue Sean Payton once again.
#2 Dallas Cowboys
Payton announced his retirement during the 2022 NFL offseason. One of the first rumors that came up after this development was regarding him going back to the Dallas Cowboys. He was once their quarterbacks coach.
Owner Jerry Jones has reportedly always been interested in reuniting with Payton at some point and this could be his opportunity.
While head coach Mike McCarthy helped the Cowboys reach the playoffs last season, Jones was extremely disappointed in the early exit. If the Cowboys don't make a deeper postseason run this season, McCarthy could be out and Jones could inquire about Sean Payton.
#3 Carolina Panthers
Matt Rhule was hired to help turn the Carolina Panthers into a playoff contender. It hasn't worked out that way till now as he has a 10-23 record from two years as the head coach.
The Panthers will likely need to show significant improvements during the 2022 NFL season for Rhule to keep his job.
If the Panthers struggle again and Rhule is fired, Payton becomes a possibility as their next head coach. David Tepper is currently the richest owner in the NFL, so he can compete with any offer on the table if he chooses to pursue the former Saints coach.
