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Sean Payton Rumors: Interest in USC’s Coaching Vacancy Makes Sense

By Phil Naegely

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The New Orleans Saints picked up a big win over a then undefeated Atlanta Falcons on Thursday night football to improve to 2-4 this season. It’s been another dismal season for New Orleans and one that hasn’t been the norm in Sean Payton’s tenure. Payton has led the Saints to five seasons above .500 in nine seasons despite what his tenth season in town is looking like. According to NFL.com’s Ian Rapport, Payton is one of three NFL coaches who is on the short-list to fill the USC coaching vacancy.

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John Harbuagh’s name on the list has been quickly shot down by the Ravens, but the other two, Chip Kelly and Sean Payton are intriguing. Kelly has stated he’s not going anywhere and smartly so given he can make player personnel decisions without approval from another person. Sean Payton’s name on the list makes a lot of sense for many reasons and he seems to be the most likely of the three NFL coaches on the short-list to jump at this opportunity.

Payton wouldn’t have to take a pay cut to go coach at USC either. In the past they’ve attracted top coaching talent including current Seattle Seahawks HC Pete Carroll.

Depending on how this season plays out, Payton could be fired mid-season by the Saints, but that is unlikely at this point especially after Thursday’s big win. At the same time, Payton could use new scenery after the Saints have disappointed in recent years. Payton would have a clean slate in USC and there would be less pressure upon him. His track record with the Saints has shown he can turn around a team that has had a disappointing performance.

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For example, the Saints went 10-6 in his first season after going 3-13 a year ago. Drew Brees was a big part of that turn around too, but Payton’s leadership has been key to Brees and the Saints finding success overall.

This is something to really keep your eye on as the season for both the Saints and Trojans play out. Payton’s arrival at USC would bring a breath of fresh air to a program that has it’s fair share of issues this year. He doesn’t appear to have issues off the field or been the center of attention for saying something controversial in the past.

For now, it looks like Payton will stay at the Saints, but don’t be surprised if this changes as the end of 2015 ticks closer. Working for USC has potential for Payton to succeed, which is something that may not happen for the head coach in his final season under contract with the Saints. It would also put him closer to his kids and the USC coaching job has been a stepping stone for coaches to head to the NFL.

All in all, Payton heading to USC would make too much sense for it not to happen. Payton is a proven head coach that could provide stability for an USC program that is currently tumultuous. USC should quickly show Payton the money and his acceptance should be a swift decision.

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