Report: Saints and Payton Close to Deal

It looks as though the New Orleans Saints are going to keep head coach Sean Payton.

Payton's original contract extension was rejected by the NFL earlier this year, fueling rumors that the coach might switch sidelines.

But according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Saints and Payton are finalizing a deal that would keep him in New Orleans for five more years.

Payton is still suspended from tem activities as a result of the bounty gate scandal and will be eligible to return next year.