Sean Payton has informed the New Orleans Saints that he plans to step away as head coach.

Payton has been the team's head coach since 2006.

Payton is not necessarily retiring permanently. Payton has received interest to work in broadcasting.

Payton has three years remaining on his deal with the Saints after signing his latest extension in 2019. The Saints will retain his rights if he wants to coach during that timeframe. 

Gayle Benson acknowledged Monday that Sean Payton's status as head coach of the New Orleans Saints 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."

Payton hasn't committed to returning to coach the Saints in 2022. Payton is under contract through 2024, which means a trade would have to be worked out for him to coach another team.

Payton has also received considerable interest from television networks should he leave coaching.

The organization doesn't appear to be pressing Payton for an immediate commitment.