Several of you have asked whether the Saints will be required to comply with the Rooney Rule in replacing coach Sean Payton for the 2012 season.
The answer is: Maybe.
Per a source with knowledge of the procedures, the Saints won’t be required to comply with the Rooney Rule if they stay within the organization to find a replacement for Payton. If, alternatively, the Saints make an outside hire for 2012, the Saints will be required to interview in person at least one minority candidate.
For now, it appears that the Saints will stay in-house, elevating offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr., offensive line coach Aaron Kromer, or defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo (pictured).
Payton’s one-season suspension becomes effective April 1.