NFL Rumors: Broncos Receive Permission from Saints to Interview Sean Payton

The Denver Broncos have been given permission to speak with former New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton.

Adam Schefter @AdamSchefter

The Denver Broncos requested and received permission from the New Orleans Saints to interview Sean Payton for their head coach job, league sources tell ESPN.

The NFL ruled that any in-person interview with Payton cannot be conducted until at least January 17, per sources.

During his eight years as the Saints' head coach, he amassed a record of 152-89 and led New Orleans to seven division titles and a Super Bowl victory.

After stepping down as the team's head coach, he signed a five-year extension with the Saints.

Permission is needed from the Saints to speak with him.

The Dolphins didn't get permission from the league to talk to Yee about becoming the team's head coach. The Dolphins were stripped of their first- and third-round draft picks and their owner was suspended and fined.

The Broncos are able to talk with him. If talks between Denver and the Saints go well, there will be more context on compensation for the Saints.

Adam Schefter @AdamSchefter

Broncos and Saints do not have to - and haven't - agreed to the compensation that would go to New Orleans if Denver hired Sean Payton, per sources. This would come later if talks between Denver and Payton go well. https://t.co/yiMzjCuRnl

After a 4-11 start in his first season at the helm, Nathaniel Hackett was let go by the Denver Broncos. Despite the addition of nine-time Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson, the Broncos have the lowest- scoring offense in football.

During his time in New Orleans, the offensive guru oversaw some of the most exciting offenses in the game.

The Broncos could use his knowledge after the Saints were top 10 in scoring for an entire decade.

The Broncos will play their final game of the season against the Los Angeles Clippers.