New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson on Sean Payton's future - 'I don't think any of us know, but he'll let us know soon enough'

METAIRIE, La. — New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson acknowledged Monday that coach Sean Payton's status remains uncertain for the 2022 season when she told local reporters, «I don't think any of us know, but he'll let us know soon enough.»

NFL Network reported Sunday that Payton had not yet committed to returning to coaching the Saints in 2022. Sources confirmed to ESPN that he has made no definitive declaration — though he was expected to return to work this week along with the rest of the Saints' coaching staff after a vacation last week.

Payton, 58, is under contract through 2024, which means a trade would have to be worked out for him to coach another team. However multiple outlets, including ESPN, have reported that television networks have shown considerable interest in Payton if he decides to retire from coaching.

Benson, who was speaking at a Mardi Gras-related event, responded to a question about Payton's status by saying, «We don't know. You know, who knows? We'll find out soon enough, I guess.»

The organization doesn't appear to be pressing Payton for an immediate commitment, allowing him time to decompress after a grueling year.

The Saints missed the playoffs for the first time in five seasons with a 9-8 record in 2021. But in many ways it ranked among Payton's most impressive coaching jobs considering quarterback Drew Brees' retirement; a roster that was depleted by major injuries, salary-cap cuts and COVID-19 issues; and a hurricane evacuation to Dallas for the first month of the season.

In Week 18, Payton acknowledged how trying the season was.

«This stretch has been, I don't want to say exhausting, but it's been one of those where you just get on to the [next task]. Nothing surprises you,» Payton said.