So honestly how will you feel if Payton eventually ends up coaching the Cowboys?

This right here. Anyone expecting a kings ransom will be disappointed. If he had gone straight to another team, yes, they could have demanded a few picks, like the Jets got for Belichek or the Raiders got for Gruden.

But after he sits out a year -- during which time the Saints will have hired a new coach -- they won't be able to do that. We'll be lucky to get as much as a third round pick, if that.


The difference here I think is that Payton would be far more valuable to the Cowboys than Arians was to the Bucs at the time. I think the Saints have enough leverage to get some substantial compensation.