Sean Payton reportedly open to leaving Saints

At 1-4 on the season and no longer able to ride the coattails of a now-aging Drew Brees to contention, the New Orleans Saints are sputtering and head coach Sean Payton’s future with the team is coming into serious question.

After reports over the weekend that multiple teams are expected to inquire about Payton’s availability after the season, now it looks like the interest could be mutual.

According to a report by Ian Rapoport of NFL.com on Thursday, Payton would potentially be “open to” any inquiries that may come his way from other teams. Rapoport cited “people familiar with Payton’s thinking,” who indicated the 51-year-old coach’s willingness to entertain outside offers.

Payton does have two years remaining on his deal with New Orleans, meaning that the Saints could wind up receiving compensation in the event that he does bolt The Big Easy for greener pastures.

The 2006 AP NFL Coach of the Year has a 81-52 record in nine seasons as head coach of the Saints, winning Super Bowl XLIV with the team in 2009. But the Saints have cratered in the last couple of seasons under Payton’s guidance and parting ways just might be the best decision for both sides as it stands right now.