The idea of Bill Parcells becoming the New Orleans Saints interim head coach during Sean Payton's one-year suspension apparently has some legs. According to Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com, Payton and Parcells are meeting in Florida this week to discuss the possibility of Parcells becoming the Saints interim head coach in Payton's absence.
Payton is in Palm Beach, Fla. at the NFL owners meetings this week.
ESPN initially reported that Payton had reached out to Parcells with the idea. It's not clear if owner Tom Benson or GM Mickey Loomis were told of the reported discussions.
One potential hang-up would be that, because Parcells is coming from outside the organization, the Saints would have to adhere to the Rooney Rule, which would require them to interview one minority candidate. It would be difficult to get a minority candidate to interview for a job that they clearly wouldn't have a shot at getting.
Parcells and Payton have history dating back to their time together with the Dallas Cowboys from 2003-05 when Parcells was the head coach. Parcells has been a mentor to Payton since he left the game.
Parcells may also have his Hall of Fame candidacy affected if he took the job. He was eligible earlier this year, but didn't get in. Returning to the NFL, however, may re-start the clock on his five-year wait.
For more on the possibility of Parcells joining the Saints, visit Canal Street Chronicles.