Head coach Sean Payton can take time off from Covid protocol on Christmas Eve. The Saints also sign a new backup quarterback.

New Orleans – Head coach Sean Payton of the New Orleans Saints was able to take time off from the NFL’s Covid protocol on Christmas Eve, making his return to the team in time for Monday’s important game against the Miami Dolphins.

Both teams stand at a record of 7-7 and desperately need a win with an eye on the playoffs. Payton had tested positive for the coronavirus last Friday and missed the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Under the direction of defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, the Saints won the clash 9-0.

From NFL Now: The Saints got coach Sean Payton back after he cleared COVID-19 protocols (as @JeffDuncan_ reported) and also signed a QB to serve as the backup to Ian Book. pic.twitter.com/9lz4bPNwL5

– Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 24, 2021

Saints: Blake Bortles comes in as backup QB

There’s also another Saints personnel move, NFL reporter Ian Rapoport reported. Quarterback Blake Bortles is joining the franchise and is expected to be the backup QB for Ian Book going forward. Book himself is the backup to Taysom Hill and Trevor Siemian, but both are on the Covid roster.

Bortles played for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2014 to 2018. He then signed with the Los Angeles Rams, Denver Broncos, the Rams again and the Green Bay Packers.