This ^^^

Many people are making the assumption that QB would be a driving force in Payton's decision for his next coaching location. He shoots that down completely here and says that the most important factor is having a good working relationship with the front office. That is already in place in New Orleans. I've also heard some wonder why Payton would want to return to the Saints with them having no 1st rounder in 2023. Well, anywhere else he goes is likely not to have one either and will likely have to give up even more just to get his rights.

I'm not saying I absolutely expect Payton to return, but it isn't quite the pipedream that some claim it to be either.