After 16 seasons as head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Sean Payton is stepping down from his position, according to a source familiar with recent talks between the head coach and ownership.
Payton informed Saints general manager Mickey Loomis and team owner Gayle Benson of the decision on Monday, following extended talks over the past week and then a short break to consider his future. The source said it hasn’t been determined whether Payton will be leaving the team permanently, but the organization is planning to move forward and could install defensive coordinator Dennis Allen as Saints head coach as quickly as this week.