And something that's never been answered clearly, is whether the unworked years of Payton's contract toll. It could be in the wording of the contract, which isn't public, or it could be an ambiguity that presumably somebody like Payton's good friend (/s) Roger Goodell would have to rule on.
Yes. This could also be litigated and keep Sean from coaching indefinitely. It would be a lose lose for all and should be held back as a nuclear option if team is not adequately compensated.