New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton Speaks Out On Suspension And Bill Parcells

New Orleans Saints Head Coach Sean Payton broke his silence today and spoke with reporters at the NFL owners meeting about his suspension and plans to meet with future Hall of Fame Coach Bill Parcells.

Payton addressed comments from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell concerning Goodell's possible acceptance of an appeal from Payton that would allow Payton to coach the Saints this season. Payton's suspension is set to begin April 1st. Goodell says Payton has until April 2nd to appeal.

"I said in a letter they have to appeal by April 2, I believe," Goodell said. "If he decides to appeal, I probably will allow him to continue and I would expedite the hearing and I would expedite my decision."

Concerning Bill Parcells, Payton said he talks regularly with Parcells, and has sought his counsel often throughout this process. He added that he, general manager Mickey Loomis - who is facing an eight-game suspension - and team owner Tom Benson are weighing a number of scenarios.

Payton was asked if he felt the Saints were being punished too severely.

"No, I accept this," Payton said. "I've heard that argument and I think trying to really look closely at how we and how I can improve has been probably a better way for me to handle this than to kind of vent or look outwardly at other programs. I try to take that approach."

AP Pro Football Writer Barry Wilner in Palm Beach and Sports Writer Brett Martel in New Orleans contributed to this story.