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Sean Payton able to negotiate with New Orleans Saints

Darlington: Coaches lack loyalty

Sean Payton might not bolt the Saints for the Cowboys, but it won't be because of loyalty, Jeff Darlington writes. **More ...**

The NFL isn't going to stand in the way of New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton and the team getting a deal done during his suspension.

Fox Sports insider and NFL Network contributor Jay Glazer reported Sunday that the Saints received written permission from the NFL to negotiate Payton's contract during his suspension.

This isn't exactly surprising news. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said last week to NFL.com NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport that the contract situation is "Up to the team and Sean Payton .... Until I get something back, it's up to them."

That indicated the NFL was waiting to hear from the Saints before they ruled on Paytons' contract status. Until a new deal is reached, there are questions about if Payton could be a coaching free agent after the season.

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.