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About the Author: Jon Ledyard
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On Friday, the New Orleans Saints announced that head coach Sean Payton has tested positive for COVID-19. The Saints play caller will miss Sunday’s game against the Bucs as a result. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will assume head coach responsibilities in Week 15. Payton is fully vaccinated, so he could return by Week 16.
Saints Head Coach Sean Payton tested positive for Covid-19 and was immediately isolated. He has been fully vaccinated.
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) December 17, 2021
The Saints were without several assistant coaches due to COVID in Week 3 against the Patriots. New Orleans won that game, 28-13. Per NFL protocols, Payton will be out for 10 days unless he meets the requirements for a fully vaccinated individual to return to the team environment. The NFL is currently in the process of amending some of the return to play qualifications for vaccinated players and coaches.
Last week, running back Mark Ingram, defensive end Cam Jordan and running back Ty Montgomery missed the game due to COVID. Injuries have decimated the Saints this season, but the team was getting healthier in Week 15. Payton’s absence will complicate things for a struggling New Orleans offense. Offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael is reportedly set to call plays with Payton sidelined. Carmichael called plays in the preseason, so he does have some experience.
Presumably, offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael will call plays for the Saints vs. the Bucs on Sunday night. Payton has called the plays for the last few years, but the Saints have Carmichael call them in preseason to prepare for this very situation.
— Jeff Duncan (@JeffDuncan_) December 17, 2021
The Saints travel to Tampa Bay to take on the Bucs in Week 15.
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