Payton: Saints won't conduct offseason program

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New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton told players in a Zoom call Wednesday that the team won't conduct an offseason program amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to ESPN's Dianna Russini.

"No virtual workouts, no online meetings, no workouts at the facility, even if it's allowed. ... Show up in July for training camp in the best shape of your life," Payton said, according to players.

He added: "Take care of your families, your health, and be ready this summer."

Club facilities have been closed by the league and aren't allowed to reopen until all 32 gain clearance from their respective states.

The Saints are well-positioned to skip having an offseason program due to the presence of Payton and quarterback Drew Brees.

Payton is the second-longest-tenured head coach behind Bill Belichick after being hired in 2006, while Brees has been in New Orleans for 14 seasons.

Payton was the first person associated with the NFL to be diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 19, but he made a quick recovery and was cleared by doctors six days later.

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