Dolphins Coaching Rumors Roundup: Miami Back In On Sean Payton?

The Miami Dolphins are hard at work trying to find a permanent replacement for former head coach Joe Philbin, and there are a litany of intriguing names connected to the organization right now. Here's the latest rumblings from around the organization.

What Are We Supposed To Believe About Sean Payton?
This past weekend, a report surfaced from NBC's Pro Football Talk which ruled the Dolphins out as a potential trade suitor for New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton. However, it appears that report was either hasty or a little bit misguided.

Per Omar Kelly of the Sun Sentinel:

"The Dolphins are one of three teams that have expressed interest in talking to Sean Payton, according to a source close to the New Orleans Saints' head coach.

"The source says the Dolphins job "indeed interests" Payton, but it's a sensitive situation because Payton is under contract with the Saints for another two seasons. To avoid NFL tampering rules, the Dolphins must request and be granted permission before they can formally have a conversation with Payton."

Miami would likely have to part with a high draft pick in order for the Saints to back out on the final two years of Payton's deal, but owner Steve Ross has a history when it comes to making a play for marquee coaching names, so it's not out of the realm of possibility.

Stay tuned.

Miami's Dance Card Is Filling Up
The Miami Dolphins interviewed former Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith on Monday and are slated to speak with former Denver Broncos/Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan on Wednesday, according to Conor Orr of NFL.com. 

Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, Jacksonville Jaguars offensive line coach Doug Marrone and interim coach Dan Campbell all have been/will be on the team's interview slate as well, per multiple media reports.