New Orleans Saints fans are hopeful about moving forward after head coach Sean Payton was reinstated by the NFL on Tuesday, Jan. 22, from his season-long suspension as a result of the league’s investigation into the team’s bounty program. The NFL had suspended Payton on March 22, 2012 for the Saints “Bountygate” scandal and voided his contract.
The decision to reinstate the coach came after a meeting between Payton and commissioner Roger Goodell on Monday in New Orleans where Payton acknowledged “his responsibility for the actions of his coaching staff and players and pledged to uphold the highest standards of the NFL.”
“We had a very productive discussion,” Goodell said in a statement.
“Sean fully complied with all the requirements imposed on him during his suspension. More important, it is clear that Sean understands and accepts his responsibilities as a head coach and the vital role that coaches play in promoting player safety and setting an example for how the game should be played at all levels. We are committed to delivering football that fans love and the safety players deserve. Coach Payton agrees and I look forward to working with him going forward to do that.”
“I am thankful today Commissioner Goodell has granted me reinstatement, Payton said in a statement. “As I stated back in March, I, along with Mickey Loomis, take full responsibility for all aspects of our football program. I clearly recognize that mistakes were made, which led to league violations.”
“Furthermore, I have assured the Commissioner a more diligent protocol will be followed. Lastly, I feel we have learned from our mistakes and are ready to move forward. I want to thank our owner, Mr. [Tom] Benson, and all of our great fans for the overwhelming support throughout this past year. I am excited to be back as Head Coach of the New Orleans saints.”
Last week, the Saints signed Payton to a five-year contract that was reported to be one of the most lucrative in the NFL.
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