NFL

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, the extension is similar to the one signed by Payton and the Saints in September of 2011. That extension was good through 2015, although it was later voided due to Payton's bounty suspension. The new deal is good through 2017 and will become official once Sean Payton's suspension formally ends after Super Bowl XLVII. Payton has a 62-34 record in six seasons as Saints head coach, including a Super Bowl victory. The new deal ensures that Payton will not flirt with the Dallas Cowboys, who were believed to have at least some interest in him if they missed the playoffs under Jason Garrett. Payton's extension in New Orleans is good news for Saints skill-position players. He's perhaps the premier offensive schemer and game-day playcaller in all the NFL.