Sean Payton reveals reason behind major offensive change

Credit - Imago Sean Payton. Image Credits: Dustin Bradford/Imago

Sean Payton reveals reason behind major offensive change

Originally posted on DenverBroncosCommunity | Last updated Sep 13, 2026 4:18 PM ET

Davis Webb will take over play-calling duties for the Denver Broncos, marking a significant change to Sean Payton’s offense.

Webb joined the Broncos in 2023 after a six-year NFL playing career. Before the 2025 season, he added pass game coordinator to his responsibilities before becoming offensive coordinator in 2026, giving him an increasingly prominent role within the offense.

Speaking on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Payton explained why he believes the change can benefit the Broncos. He believes giving Webb greater ownership can help the Broncos’ offense. He wants Webb to have confidence in the plays on the call sheet rather than install plays he won’t want to use on Sundays.

Payton explained, “Ultimately, what we put on that sheet, he’s got to feel good about. And so I, you know, I’ll go through some plays, some thoughts that I think look good. And here’s why: I said last night, ‘The worst thing we can do is take down and install plays that, you know, in your heart of hearts, on Sunday you’re not going to be interested in calling. So let’s not do that.’”

Payton made the potential impact clear when he added, “I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t think it was gonna help us win games.”

"I wouldn't have done it if I didn't think it was going to help us win games."@colincowherd & @Broncos HC @SeanPayton discuss his decision to hand off play-calling to offensive coordinator Davis Webb pic.twitter.com/H9JY0PJZfN
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) September 11, 2026

Giving Webb control of the calls allows him to work with a game plan he believes in. Payton now hopes that confidence can help the Broncos get more from their offense.

Sean Payton will still have input during games

Sean Payton will still provide Davis Webb with situational guidance during games.

For example, if Denver reaches third down near the 38-yard line and Payton is considering using all four downs, he can tell Webb before the call.

That information could change how Webb approaches the third-down play.

Payton explained, “In other words, he’s calling it like third down, but if we’re approaching a third down at the 38-yard line I might say to him, ‘I’m thinking four downs here,’ and that can change his third-down call.”

Payton also expects game conditions to factor into those conversations. He mentioned the possibility of 20-to-30-mile-per-hour wind gusts Monday night, which could affect Denver’s offensive approach for their season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.

This article first appeared on DenverBroncosCommunity and was syndicated with permission.

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