SEATTLE (AP) — In his 13 seasons in charge New Orleans coach Sean Payton has always had one constant by his side.
Nearly every game. Nearly every snap. It’s almost always been Drew Brees on the other end of the receiver, listening to what Payton is saying, and for the most part tormenting opponents.
And now Brees is gone for an undetermined time after surgery to repair an injured ligament near his right thumb. It’s a test Payton’s never faced, being without Brees for an extended period. It begins on Sunday when the Saints face fellow NFC contender Seattle.