Sean Payton Rebuilds Denver Broncos with Lessons from the Past
As Sean Payton embarks on his second season as head coach of the Denver Broncos, the journey thus far has been anything but smooth. Payton, known for his successful tenure with the New Orleans Saints, is now tasked with turning around a franchise that has seen its fair share of struggles.
Payton’s first year in Denver was challenging, but the coach remains resolute. One key to his coaching philosophy is the comparison he often draws between Drew Brees, his former quarterback with the Saints, and Bo Nix, a talented prospect who was the 12th overall pick in April’s draft. "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 remarked.
During his time in New Orleans, Payton found immense success with Brees. The quarterback’s ability to avoid sacks was notably impressive, with Brees being sacked more than 30 times in a single season only twice over his stellar 20-year career. On average, Brees was taken down 22 times per season during his 19 years as a starter. This resilience and quick decision-making in the pocket are qualities that Payton believes Nix possesses as well.
Russell Wilson, the current quarterback for the Broncos, has faced his own set of challenges. Over the first 12 years of his career, Wilson was sacked an average of nearly 44 times per season. The stark contrast between Wilson’s and Brees’ sack numbers underscores the importance of quarterback awareness and quick releases—qualities that Payton is keen on instilling in his current roster.
In evaluating Nix, Payton has pointed out notable similarities to Brees, particularly in their mental approach and game sense. "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's focus on reducing sacks and improving offensive efficiency is evident in his strategic choices. "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," Payton stated, emphasizing the importance of a quarterback’s timing and awareness.
Although Brees is no longer active, his legacy and the lessons learned from coaching him continue to influence Payton's approach. Anticipated to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026, Brees' storied career serves as a benchmark for what Payton hopes to achieve with Denver’s quarterbacks.
Meanwhile, the competition for the starting quarterback position in Denver remains fierce, with Jarrett Stidham vying for the spot. As the Broncos navigate through preseason and training camps, Payton’s experience and keen eye for quarterback talent will be crucial in determining who leads the team's offense moving forward.
Payton's philosophy and the comparisons drawn between Brees and Nix may hold the key to a rejuvenation of the Broncos' fortunes. If Payton can successfully impart the wisdom gleaned from years of coaching one of the NFL’s most efficient quarterbacks, Denver may see a new era of offensive stability and success.
With the legacy of Drew Brees casting a long shadow, the development of Nix and the performance of Wilson and Stidham will be closely watched. As Payton works to rebuild and redefine the Broncos, he remains anchored by the principles that brought him success in New Orleans. This season could mark the beginning of a significant turnaround for a franchise eager to return to its winning ways.