Sean Payton didn't get on the phone to chitchat.
He dialed in to set a tone.
This NFL season is going to be difficult and challenging and distracting in ways no one has ever experienced before. Talent matters because it always matters, and the Saints have more of it than perhaps any other team, but it could quickly go to waste with even a momentary lack of focus.
Payton gets it. Every single word he spoke was about handling business, personal responsibility and preparation. He also used the opportunity to make it clear that this offseason is going to be difficult and challenging, and it seems like there will be a low tolerance for anyone or anything that isn't ready to go when the time comes. No one should feel too comfortable right now.
