3 bombshell packages the Carolina Panthers could offer for Sean Payton

What bombshell packages might the Carolina Panthers offer in pursuit of making Sean Payton their next head coach in 2023?

The rumor mill was buzzing on Sunday afternoon after the Carolina Panthers received permission from the New Orleans Saints to speak with Sean Payton. This is the highest-profile head coaching candidate on their shortlist by a considerable margin and something that sparked fierce debate among the fanbase on social media in its immediate aftermath.

Payton’s credentials are glittering throughout his time as an NFL head coach. This is also the sort of bold appointment normally associated with team owner David Tepper since he purchased the franchise from Jerry Richardson.

Of course, this could all be a smokescreen as the Panthers look to take the attention away from others such as Ben Johnson. The Detroit Lions offensive coordinator is set for an in-person discussion with the Panthers on Wednesday and according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, is the frontrunner right now.

That could change if Payton demonstrates legitimate interest in the job. And in all honesty, Carolina is a more appealing vacancy than most when one factors everything into the equation.

A solid roster, decent cap space providing the right sacrifices are made, and the chance to draft and mold a franchise quarterback from the college ranks. These are just three reasons why Payton could seriously consider the Panthers despite significant interest from elsewhere.

The big talking point is obviously compensation. New Orleans isn’t going to give Payton to the Panthers for some magic beans, but here are three potential packages that might get this deal over the line.