Report: Denver Broncos finalize blockbuster trade deal for Sean Payton as head coach

After the Broncos were announced to have hired Sean Payton as their next coach, they reportedly finalized their compensation to the Saints. In a rare turn of events for New Orleans, their former coach became a valuable asset in trade talks after his retirement mid-contract with the Saints after the 2021 season.

With Payton still under contract until 2024, in order for him to receive a new coaching job he would have to be allowed to by the Saints — via some form of compensation package by the team that hires him. The Broncos reportedly had offered a couple of options to New Orleans to acquire Payton, and the Saints have chosen to receive a first-round and second-round draft pick in return for Payton and a third-round pick they own.

Broncos make blockbuster trade for Sean Payton

Immediately after the shocking news that the Broncos had pulled the trigger on a deal for the highly sought after coach, ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed the two potential packages offered to New Orleans as compensation. The first option was Denver’s 2023 first-round pick and next year’s second-round pick for Payton and the Saints’ 2024 third. The second option was for Denver’s 2024 first round pick and the fourth-round pick from 2023, with no return pick from New Orleans.

Shortly afterwards, Schefter explained that the Saints had chosen the first option and the teams were finalizing the deal.

Sean Payton linking up with Russell Wilson

For years, Payton had success with future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees in New Orleans. The two were able to win a championship together and made countless runs at a second. Payton will be hoping for similar success alongside Wilson.

When Denver traded for Wilson, he was thought to be one of the best quarterbacks in the league, just needing a change of scenery from Seattle. Year One was a borderline disaster and that’s before considering some of the injuries sustained.

Wilson completed just 60.5% of his throws for 3,524 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Denver won just 11 of the 15 games he started in. Less than ideal after trading a good chunk of your future draft capital.

Pairing somebody who is viewed as a top offensive mind in football with a semi-damaged quarterback is the idea here from Denver. We will have to wait and see what the duo is able to accomplish together.

On3’s Griffin McVeigh contributed to this article.