sean payton
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Sean Payton Coaching Profile

Sean Payton, born December 29, 1963, is the current head coach of the Denver Broncos. He previously led the New Orleans Saints from 2006 to 2021, guiding them to their first Super Bowl victory in 2009. Payton’s NFL coaching career includes:

  • A 160-98-0 record as head coach over 17 seasons
  • 9 playoff berths and 7 division titles with the Saints
  • AP NFL Coach of the Year award in 2006
  • A brief suspension in 2012 due to the Saints bounty scandal

Sean Payton Coaching Record

Years ActiveRecordWin %Playoff RecordPlayoff Win %
26230-171-157.34%11-1150.00%
Coaching record includes all coaching staff positions Sean Payton has held.

Head coaching record is 160-98 (.620) in total. Regular Season 152-89 (.631), Post Season 9-8 (.529)

Coaching Tree

Parents

Children

READ MORE: FULL LIST OF NFL HEAD COACHES

Sean Payton Salary

While exact figures are not always publicly available, Sean Payton’s salary is estimated at $18 million with the Denver Broncos.

Sean Payton Coaching Style

Sean Payton’s coaching approach is characterized by offensive innovation and a focus on discipline and accountability. His philosophy encompasses several key elements:

  • Emphasizing a balanced offense with equal focus on running and passing games
  • Adapting offensive schemes to maximize player talents
  • Instilling a culture of discipline and accountability, inspired by his mentor Bill Parcells
  • Prioritizing a strong offensive line as the foundation of the team

Payton’s coaching style is notable for:

  • His offensive prowess, setting records for points scored and yards gained in a coach’s first 100 games
  • Ability to revitalize struggling franchises, as seen with the Saints in 2006
  • Focus on player development and strategic personnel decisions
  • Emphasis on thorough preparation and attention to detail

This approach has led to consistent success, particularly during his tenure with the Saints, where he transformed the team into perennial contenders.

Sean Payton Coaching Tree

Sean Payton’s influence extends beyond his direct coaching achievements, as evidenced by his growing coaching tree. His leadership and mentorship have helped shape several NFL coaches:

Payton learned from some of the NFL’s most respected coaches:

  • Jim Fassel: Payton served under Fassel with the New York Giants, refining his offensive strategies.
  • Bill Parcells: As assistant head coach with the Dallas Cowboys, Payton absorbed Parcells’ team-building philosophies.
  • Ray Rhodes: Early in his NFL career, Payton worked under Rhodes with the Philadelphia Eagles.

In turn, Payton has mentored several coaches who went on to become NFL head coaches:

  • Dennis Allen: Served as Payton’s defensive coordinator before becoming head coach of the Raiders and later the Saints.
  • Dan Campbell: Worked under Payton as tight ends coach and assistant head coach before leading the Detroit Lions.
  • Doug Marrone: Was Payton’s offensive coordinator before head coaching stints with the Bills and Jaguars.
  • Marc Trestman: Though not a direct assistant, Trestman’s CFL success led to Payton recommending him for the Bears’ head coaching job.

Payton’s coaching tree reflects his offensive expertise and leadership development skills. As his career continues, this tree is likely to expand, further cementing his impact on the NFL coaching landscape.

READ MORE: HIGHEST PAID NFL HEAD COACHES & HEAD COACH SALARY

Sean Payton Football Career Timeline

  • Eastern Illinois University (1983-1986): Player (Quarterback)
  • Various Professional Teams (1987-1988): Player (Chicago Bears, Arena Football League, Canadian Football League)
  • San Diego State (1988-1989): Offensive Assistant
  • Indiana State (1990-1991): Running Backs & Wide Receivers Coach
  • San Diego State (1992-1993): Running Backs Coach
  • Miami (OH) (1994-1995): Offensive Coordinator
  • Illinois (1996): Quarterbacks Coach
  • Philadelphia Eagles (1997-1998): Quarterbacks Coach
  • New York Giants (1999-2002):
  • Quarterbacks Coach (1999)
  • Offensive Coordinator (2000-2002)
  • Dallas Cowboys (2003-2005): Assistant Head Coach & Quarterbacks Coach
  • New Orleans Saints (2006-2021): Head Coach
  • Denver Broncos (2023-Present): Head Coach

Sean Payton’s coaching career is marked by consistent success and innovation. He excels at developing quarterbacks and creating potent offenses. His teams often show rapid improvement under his leadership. Payton’s move to the Denver Broncos marks a new chapter in his career. NFL fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how he impacts the Broncos’ performance in the coming seasons.