Parcells unlikely to coach Saints, sources say

PHOTOGRAPHER: The Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS — Multiple media reports citing unidentified sources say Bill Parcells is unlikely to become the Saints interim coach.

The reports say Parcells prefers to remain retired and not replace longtime friend Sean Payton, who will serve a season-long suspension for his role in New Orleans’ bounty system.

Saints spokesman Greg Bensel declined today to confirm Parcells has been ruled out as a possible Payton replacement, saying the team “has nothing to report” concerning the search for an interim coach.

Parcells’ agent Jimmy Sexton declined to comment. Parcells, 70, has coached the Giants, Jets, Patriots and Cowboys during his NFL career.

If the Saints decide to select a replacement from their existing staff, the leading contenders are: assistant head coach Joe Vitt, who will serve a six-game suspension; offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr.; offensive line coach Aaron Kromer; new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.