The NFL has granted the New Orleans Saints permission to negotiate a new contract with suspended coach Sean Payton, according to a report by the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
The newspaper reported that, while Payton's suspension for his involvement in the bounty scandal forbids him from speaking with the organization, he and the Saints are permitted to speak in regards to his contract situation.
ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported Sunday that a previous contract extension between Payton and the Saints was voided by the league. Should the two sides be unable to reach agreement on a new deal, Payton would be a free agent.
Saints QB Drew Brees has no doubt he'll be reunited with Payton in 2013.