Russell Wilson, Sean Payton, and all we know about Broncos HC search
Former New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton is being pursued by many teams to become their head coach. The Denver Broncos are one of them and want to bring in Payton to improve their situation.
Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos parted ways with Nathaniel Hackett after a disappointing 51-14 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Since then, the franchise has been actively looking for a new head coach, and Sean Payton is their top target.
According to Colin Cowherd, Wilson has already contacted Payton about the job in Denver as the quarterback believes the 59-year-old could fix his problems.
Here's what Colin Cowherd said about Russell Wilson on Herd with Colin Cowherd:
“Russell Wilson has contacted Sean — legally, by the way, through channels, He wants Sean Payton. He needs fixing, he knows he needs fixing.”
Russell Wilson had a very poor first season in Denver and wants to work with Payton to bring his game back to the level where he played in Seattle. Wilson wasn't able to get along well with Hackett, but a veteran coach like Payton can certainly bring the best out of him.
Wilson threw for 3,524 yards with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions this season. He had a career-low passer rating of 84.4.
Payton had an interview scheduled with the Carolina Panthers on January 20th but it is now on hold due to the death of Anton Walkes, a soccer player for Charlotte FC.
Why did Sean Payton retire?
Sean Payton decided to retire last season after the New Orleans Saints missed the playoffs. Without Drew Brees, the team didn't look good, and Payton thought it was the right time to move away from football.
Here's what Payton said about his decision to retire last season:
“It was time, I felt like it was time maybe heading into training camp, I felt the time was right for me. There’s a lot of sacrifices that you make, I looked at it as an opportunity to see my kids more, to travel more to get in better shape.”
He added:
“Retirement, I don’t think is the right word today, I don’t know what’s next and it kind of feels good.”
Payton had hinted that it wasn't a permanent retirement and that he would likely be back shortly after his break. He is now more than eager to get back as a head coach in the NFL and will likely secure a top-level job soon.
Whether it will be in Denver or elsewhere, though, remains to be seen.
If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Herd with Colin Cowherd and H/T Sportskeeda.