Saints Coach Payton signs 5-year extension

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NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- New Orleans Saints head Coach Sean Payton -- who missed the 2012 under a suspension -- has signed a five-year contract extension, the team said Wednesday.

Saints owner Tom Benson said Payton "has been a great leader for our organization," crediting him and General Manager Mickey Loomis with building "a foundation of success."

"We have already begun preparations for the 2013 season and I look forward to getting Sean back in the building as soon as possible, as I know our fans do as well," he said.

The team finished 7-9 and out of the playoffs this season under interim coaches Joe Vitt and Aaron Kromer as Payton was exiled as a result of the Saints bounty scandal.

He had originally signed an extension last year, but that deal was nullified by the NFL due to unspecified language in the contract.

Payton has racked up a 62-34 record with four playoff appearances in six seasons guiding the club.