The New Orleans Saints are getting a much-needed boost from the return of head coach Sean Payton to the sidelines after a yearlong suspension stemming from the Bountygate case. However, one thing that apparently remains uncertain is if Payton will resume play-calling duties now that he’s back at the helm.
According to Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Payton said it’s still undecided whether he or offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael would handle that role.
“We haven’t worked through all that yet,” Payton said. “But Pete’s invaluable. His role will be significant.”
Carmichael first assumed play-calling duties for the Saints two years ago when Payton suffered a fractured leg and torn MCL in a sideline collision. With the Saints offense rolling along, Carmichael kept the job when Payton healed up and through Payton’s suspension last season.
Payton could be following the lead of the Dallas Cowboys in trying to keep who will be calling plays under wraps with the thought it somehow will provide a competitive advantage in June. However, unlike the Cowboys, both Payton and Carmichael have proven to be very successful when they’ve handling play-calling duties. No matter who ultimately makes those decision, the Saints offense should continue to be a force.