Payton Committed to Saints, Lion's Johnson Looks at Retirement

Sean Payton reiterated his commitment to the New Orleans Saints on Wednesday, saying, "I'll be here as long as they'll have me."

"I know it appeared there was a looming decision," he said at his news conference. "But I think this is really me saying again, 'Here I am, and nothing's changing.'"

Payton said he understands the interest and skepticism that has surrounded his future over the past few days. But he said, "This is where I plan on coaching. And I don't envision myself ever coaching for any other club."

Among active coaches, only Bill Belichick of the Patriots (16 seasons), Marvin Lewis of the Bengals (13) and Mike McCarthy of the Packers (10) have been with their teams longer than Payton, who has been in New Orleans for nine seasons, not including his 2012 suspension.

ESPN reported Tuesday that, according to sources, the Indianapolis Colts expressed interest in Payton. He said Wednesday that no teams reached out to him; they are barred from doing so unless they have the Saints' permission.

Lions Johnson Contemplating Retirement

Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is contemplating retirement, and a source told ESPN's Ed Werder that Johnson warned his mother a few days ago he wasn't sure if he'll continue to play.

Johnson, who is 30 and just completed his ninth NFL season, released a statement Wednesday through the Lions saying he is "evaluating options for my future."

"I would expect to have a decision regarding this matter in the not-too-distant future," Johnson said.

A source told Werder the question for Johnson is, "Do I want to play football?"

"I think that's the whole thing," the source said. "I think Calvin [is] that kind of guy if I don't feel I'm into this 100 percent, then I need to think about if I want to be in it at all.

Saturday, January 9 Schedule (All Times Central)

Kansas City at Houston, 3:20 p.m.

AFC WILD CARD PLAYOFF

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 7:15 p.m.

AFC WILD CARD PLAYOFF

Sunday, January 10 Schedule (All Times Central)

Seattle at Minnesota, 12:05 p.m.

NFC WILD CARD PLAYOFF

Green Bay at Washington, 3:40 p.m.