Sean Payton's Second Season with the Denver Broncos: Drawing Parallels and Facing Challenges
As Sean Payton embarks on his second season as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, comparisons between his current and past experiences have started to surface. Particularly, Payton often finds himself drawing parallels between his time with Drew Brees at the New Orleans Saints and his new tenure with the Broncos.
The synergy between Payton and Brees was unmistakable during their time together in New Orleans. Under Payton's guidance, Brees transformed into one of the most successful and efficient quarterbacks in NFL history. Over his 20-year career, Brees was sacked more than 30 times in a single season only twice, averaging 22 sacks per season during his 19 years as a starter. This low sack rate, according to Payton, is more reflective of Brees' quick decision-making and pocket awareness than the prowess of the offensive line. "I used to say this all the time: The sack numbers are a reflection more on the quarterback than the offensive line. Brees was one of those guys, he was a tough sack. The ball came out, and I think Bo has traits like that," Payton explained.
Bo Nix, the 12th overall pick in April’s draft and a rising star in the Broncos' camp, has caught Payton's eye for similar reasons. Having played 61 college games, Nix brings a level of maturity and game sense that Payton finds reminiscent of a young Brees. "All right, we're looking for similarities. I would say mentally, [Nix] wants to know as much and as fast as he can. I think there's maybe a maturity level because, again, [Nix] played 61 games [in college] and when [the Saints] got Drew, it was off of his rookie contract and coming off an injury," Payton noted. The sense of readiness and awareness Nix shows in the pocket suggests a promising future and reflects the kind of adaptability and speed Payton values in a quarterback.
However, Payton’s first year in Denver didn’t unfold as smoothly. The Broncos faced numerous challenges, with quarterback protection being a significant issue. Russell Wilson, the team's veteran quarterback, was sacked an alarming average of nearly 44 times per season during his initial 12-year career span, highlighting a stark contrast to the protection numbers seen with Brees. This susceptibility to sacks underscored a critical area of improvement for Payton and his coaching staff.
As the new season approaches, competition heats up in Denver's quarterback camp. Jarrett Stidham is currently vying for the starting job alongside Nix and Wilson. Stidham’s presence adds another layer of complexity to Payton's strategic planning. Navigating these dynamics will require not only keen talent assessment but also an ability to foster the same kind of resilient and proactive play exhibited by his former protégé, Brees.
Furthermore, Drew Brees' legacy still casts a long shadow in Payton’s career. Anticipated to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026, Brees is a constant benchmark for excellence. While paying homage to his past success with Brees, Payton is keen on building a new legacy with the Broncos, placing trust in emerging talents like Nix and refining veteran skills exemplified by Wilson.
Summarizing the confluence of old lessons and new opportunities, Payton remarked on Nix's attributes: "You see pretty good pocket sense. Doesn't take a lot of sacks. I think when he knows when the play's over, time to go, and then, I think he can make plays when he's going." This adaptability and quick-release strategy are integral to Payton’s vision and serve as a blueprint for Denver's offensive approach moving forward.
As Denver gears up for the upcoming season, Payton’s journey exemplifies the melding of past wisdom with present aspiration. Balancing seasoned insights with youthful promise, Sean Payton is on a mission to recreate a winning formula in Denver, reminiscent of his golden years with Drew Brees.