New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton has informed the organization that he is retiring and therefore will not return to the helm of the team in 2022.
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At a press conference, the 58-year-old man explained that it was time for him to move on to another stage of his life. The coach informed general manager Mickey Loomis and owner Gayle Benson last week.
“It was a tough discussion about my future and what I wanted to do,” Payton said.
“This is a big decision that has an impact on many people. As a coach, it is very rare to have the opportunity to be able to leave on your own. It’s something I didn’t think about during my years here. Usually you’re just working and eventually you’re told you have to leave. It seems easier to leave thanking everyone than to be fired,” he continued with emotion.
Payton was in charge of the Saints beginning in 2006 and went 152-89, leading his squad to Super Bowl victory in 2009. He also led the team in 17 playoff games, winning nine games. ‘between them. However, the coach saw his people fail in their quest to participate in postseason games in 2021. New Orleans went 9-8, which was insufficient to advance.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be your head coach for 16 years,” Payton said, speaking to Saints fans. I enjoyed each of you. Thank you for sticking with us through good times and bad.”
“I want to be remembered as someone who was passionate and very involved.”
In addition, the pilot had been at the heart of the scandal of bonuses granted to players injuring opponents. An investigation had revealed the existence of a rewards program in force from 2009 to 2011 for defensive players who sent rivals on the floor. Several penalties were later imposed by the NFL and Payton was suspended for 2012.
Regarding the rest of things, the California native did not rule out a possible return to the NFL. However, he maintained the mystery of his future intentions.
“My plan is not to be a coach in 2022,” he said.
