20 head coaching possibilities for 2016

Sep 27, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton on the sidelines in the fourth quarter. The Panthers defeated the Saints 27-22 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Sean Payton

Currently – head coach New Orleans Saints

Sean Payton’s future in New Orleans is doubt and there have been several rumors across the internet that Indianapolis and Miami could be landing spots for the coach. While still under contract with the Saints, Payton would need to be released or traded before he could join another franchise. There are some who believe that Payton will ask for and receive his release after the season is over. He will likely have a say in where he lands.

Payton took a starved city of New Orleans and filled it with Saints pride upon his arrival in 2006. In his 10 seasons as a head coach, Payton has taken the Saints to five 10 digit win totals and one Super Bowl victory.

Many believe that the success of Payton can be directly linked to the determination and gritty play of quarterback Drew Brees. While the Saints have had a powerful offense, their defense has often needed improvement. This past off-season the Saints gutted their team to get their salary cap under control.

If Payton stays with the Saints he will need to find a suitable replacement for the aging Brees and fix both sides of the ball. Still his resume as a head coach and his career 91-60 coaching record will make his a very sought after head coach should he become available.

Next: Jim Mora