Colts had interest in Sean Payton before extending Chuck Pagano

— -- The Indianapolis Colts were expressing interest in New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton on the same day that they ultimately negotiated a contract extension with coach Chuck Pagano, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and the Terre Haute Tribune.

Pagano was given a four-year extension Monday night, ending speculation about his future following an 8-8 season with the Colts.

But despite Pagano's extension, which was completed after hours of meetings with owner Jim Irsay, the Colts also had some level of interest in Payton, league sources told Schefter.

The Terre Haute Tribune reported Tuesday that the Colts were in talks with Payton while negotiations with Pagano were also happening.

Teams technically are not allowed to negotiate with Payton, who still has two year remaining on his contract with the Saints.

Payton and Saints brass met extensively Monday to discuss his future in New Orleans and are expected to continue talks on Tuesday.

Sources told Schefter and ESPN's Chris Mortensen that the 49ers and Eagles are expected to explore the potential of hiring Payton if the Saints make him available. Any team hoping to hire Payton will have to work out a compensation arrangement with the Saints.

Information from ESPN Saints reporter Mike Triplett was used in this report.