Sean Payton?

Angelique Chengelis throws out a surprising name:

Apparently Michigan has branched out and contacted at least one NFL coach about its vacant coaching job.

New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton, 43, did hear from individuals connected to the Michigan search, according to a source close to Payton.

"They've expressed interest," the source said, referring to U-M. "There was interest in Sean using 'unofficial' intermediaries."

Initial reaction: there's no way. If Michigan can't put together a financial package impressive enough to pry someone out of Rutgers there's zero chance they pick off an NFL coach who still has a job.

HT: Quo Vadimus.

Update: Apparently Michigan didn't contact Payton or, more likely, the agent is lying. Likely moot in any case.

Update II: Payton denies any interest in M. It's dead, Jim.