Despite being under contract with the New Orleans Saints through 2024, head coach Sean Payton reportedly hasn't committed to returning next season. 

The news comes from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, who reports that the attempts to contact the head coach from NFL.com have been unsuccessful, and that Payton has yet to inform the team that he'll be back in 2022, as well as going dark on several people that are close to him.

"It would be highly unlikely for Payton to coach another team in 2022, sources say," Rapoport explained. "Rather, this would be a mini-retirement to recharge for a year after a season several people close to him described as incredibly challenging and difficult."

What's more, FOX Sports is reportedly targeting Payton as a potential replacement for Troy Aikman should he depart for Amazon: 

He's been head coach of the Saints since his hiring in 2006, and led the team to the Super Bowl XLIV championship. He's also led them to eight playoff berths and six NFC South titles.