Payton Reclaims Play-Calling Duties for Broncos Amidst Slow Start

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton announced Monday that he will resume play-calling duties for the team's offense, a significant shift from his initial delegation to offensive coordinator Davis Webb. The move comes as the Broncos navigate a 2-2 start to the season.

"We’ll make a change offensively," Payton told reporters. "I’ll call the plays." He indicated that Webb will remain involved in game-planning.

This decision by Payton could impact quarterback Bo Nix, who has thrown for five touchdowns and three interceptions while completing 60% of his passes for 819 yards through four games. The change might also benefit wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, who has reportedly underperformed since his acquisition from the Dolphins.

Payton had previously fired offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi in the offseason, which created the opportunity for Webb's promotion. Webb's ascension to play-calling was the first time Payton had relinquished such duties since his arrival in Denver in 2023. Webb had garnered significant attention from other teams, interviewing for head coaching positions with the Raiders and Bills during the past offseason, leading many to believe that Payton initially entrusted him with play-calling to retain him within the organization.

Despite Payton's reassumption of play-calling, he expressed confidence in Webb's future, stating, "I’ve done this long enough where I know when I have a future head coach, and [Webb’s] gonna be one."