3 reasons Sean Payton’s departure is great news for the Panthers

Sean Payton is leaving the New Orleans Saints after 15 seasons, which is something that could benefit the Carolina Panthers moving forward.

Just a few short days after the rumor mill started turning regarding Sean Payton‘s future, the New Orleans Saints head coach confirmed he was leaving the organization after a 15-season period that brought an elusive Super Bowl and plenty of memorable highlights along the way.

Although the team fell short on numerous occasions in the postseason – twice most recently to the Minnesota Vikings – Payton’s tenure will go down as a great success. One that Saints fans will remember for years to come.

This could have a ripple effect on the Carolina Panthers, who’ve found life difficult against teams led by the respected figure more often than not. A disappointing defeat in New Orleans during the penultimate game of the season ended up being Payton’s final win on home soil – something nobody really considered at the time.

However, with the Saints embarking on some salary-cap hell this offseason, Drew Brees retired, and a number of other established roster members facing uncertain futures, Payton has decided to walk away and let a new man come in and take the reins. This is a storied franchise, but it might not be all that attractive considering the predicament New Orleans finds itself in.

With the retirement speculation also clouding over Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady, the pendulum might be shifting in the NFC South. Whether the Panthers are in a position to take advantage is another matter entirely.

Without further ado, here are three reasons Payton’s retirement should be good news for the Panthers moving forward.