Yardbarker
x
Sean Payton taking over play-calling duties leads to one critical question
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Sean Payton taking over play-calling duties leads to one critical question

By Andrew Wright  |  Last updated Oct 8, 2026 4:49 PM ET
Google Add us as a preferred source on Google

Despite several reports Thursday indicating that the Denver Broncos would be taking a "collaborative" approach to play-calling in Week 5, head coach Sean Payton shut those talks down with a clear message.

Sean Payton is taking full control of play-calling duties

Payton spoke to the media after Thursday's practice and made an announcement regarding offensive play-calling on Sunday against the Chargers.

It won't be a collaborative effort between Payton and offensive coordinator Davis Webb. Instead, it will be Payton fully taking over play-calling duties after relinquishing them prior to the season.

“We’ll make a change offensively. I’ll call the plays," Payton told reporters Thursday. It is no surprise to see the change, as Denver has struggled to get going offensively this season, averaging just 18.5 points per game, the sixth fewest in the NFL.

Can Sean Payton unlock the Broncos offense?

Most of the Broncos' struggles this season have been attributed to Bo Nix and his lack of stretching the ball down the field. Nix has thrown 37 passes behind the line of scrimmage through four weeks, the most in the NFL.

Denver was at its best last season when Nix was stretching the ball down the field vertically and connecting on big plays. That was also a factor in the Broncos bringing in Jaylen Waddle, an outstanding receiver who can make a lot of big plays down the field.

Nix's play-caller last season when he was throwing the ball deep and having a lot of success? Payton.

Denver will need to get its offense figured out quickly

Payton and the offense will have to figure things out quickly, as the schedule starts to get tough. Two of the Broncos' next four games are against the Seattle Seahawks and Kansas City Chiefs.

If the offense takes some time to get into rhythm back under Payton, those will be two extremely challenging games and Denver could be on the outside of the playoff picture headed into the back half of the season.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan. 

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA.