The NFL announced on Tuesday that commissioner Roger Goodell has lifted Payton’s suspension effective immediately, after meeting with the coach on Monday.
“Sean fully complied with all the requirements imposed on him during his suspension,” the commissioner said in a statement. “More important, it is clear that Sean understands and accepts his responsibilities as a head coach and the vital role that coaches play in promoting player safety and setting an example for how the game should be played at all levels. We are committed to delivering football that fans love and the safety players deserve. Coach Payton agrees and I look forward to working with him going forward to do that.”
In addition to resuming his duties as head coach of the Saints, Payton will also be allowed to attend the Senior Bowl.
Payton, in his own statement, reiterated his responsibility in the Saints’ Bountygate, while declaring that “a more diligent protocol” will be followed for the Saints in the future.
“I feel we have learned from our mistakes and are ready to move forward,” Payton said. “I am excited to be back as head coach of the New Orleans Saints!”
