Broncos' Russell Wilson praises Sean Payton amid relationship uncertainty

Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson has only positive things to say about new head coach Sean Payton this spring. 

"I think Sean's one of the best coaches to ever coach this game," Wilson told reporters amid voluntary organized team activities, per Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' website. "He's intense, he's focused, he's such a great teacher of the game. All of us are learning every day, more information, learning how to play the game the right way. How to practice at the highest level. That's what we're focused on right now."

Wilson and the Broncos agreed to a five-year extension reportedly worth up to $245M with $165M guaranteed shortly before the 34-year-old began what became the worst season, to date, of his pro career. Denver then turned to Payton as the permanent replacement for the fired Nathaniel Hackett, and Terry Bradshaw, Payton's former colleague with Fox, generated headlines when he said ahead of Super Bowl LVII the coach has "no choice" but to work with Wilson for at least the 2023 season. 

It's been suggested that Payton could sit Wilson in favor of backup Jarrett Stidham this fall and then move on from the one-time Super Bowl champion next winter if things go poorly for the 2023 Broncos. The "lean and mean" Wilson is doing what he can to concentrate on putting all that occurred last season in the past. 

"I think the thing we focus on is … having one day at a time and always believing," Wilson explained. "Always believing, always focused on the details. Always focused on what we can do together as a team. Just being the best version of you every day. Bringing that every day. Bringing that level of intensity every day. I'm looking forward to that."

Individuals such as former Seattle Seahawks linebacker K.J. Wright have expressed doubts the Wilson-Payton relationship will produce positive results or last beyond a single campaign. 

For now, it sounds like the two are still in a honeymoon phase during what are often viewed as largely meaningless springtime workouts.