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For four teams, the clock keeps ticking towards midnight threat level.
Three weeks after the end of the regular season, no coaches were hired in Denver, Indianapolis, Arizona or Houston. Former Saints coach Sean Payton has a role in three of those locations.
Payton appeared on the FOX NFL kickoff show and broadly addressed his candidacy.
“It’s been a busy week, a great week,” Payton said. “We had the opportunity to visit many great owners and many outstanding organizations. You’re obviously looking for a reboot.
“I think with the way the hiring process for coaches has changed this year, we see it taking a little longer for these clubs. And I think there’s more pressure on everyone reporting on it. And I think it’s a good thing because they allow teams to find the right candidates.
“I think in the next week we will know a lot more. . . . There are a handful of things that are still happening for these coaches and for me.”
A week can be a lifetime when it comes to coaching searches. The Panthers signed their lease three days ago.
Payton did not address the Washington Post’s report that he has concerns about a potential power struggle with a member of the Broncos’ ownership. He had previously refuted it on Twitter.
It continues to be one of the strangest reports of the week, something Payton would have no reason to lick. Even if he has concerns, it’s still important to have maximum options and leverage. Preemptively burning a bridge to Denver makes no sense.
Within the next week the whole situation will make more sense. That’s what Payton thinks and is right in the middle of 75 percent of current search queries.