As Sean Payton embarks on his second season as head coach of the Denver Broncos, football aficionados are paying close attention to his approach in addressing the challenges his team faces. Payton's first year in Denver proved challenging, and now, with a deeper understanding of his roster, he is determined to turn things around.
Identifying Key Comparisons
Payton has been drawing comparisons between two quarterbacks: Drew Brees and Bo Nix. His successful tenure with Brees during their time with the New Orleans Saints is well documented. Payton often speaks highly of Brees, not just for his on-field prowess, but for his exceptional ability to avoid sacks. "The sack numbers are a reflection more on the quarterback than the offensive line," Payton said. "Brees was one of those guys, he was a tough sack. The ball came out, and I think Bo has traits like that."
Bo Nix's Potential
Nix, who was the 12th overall pick in April's draft, has a touted college career under his belt, playing in 61 games. Payton sees qualities in Nix that remind him of Brees, particularly in his pocket sense and decision-making. "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 observed.
This comparison isn’t just superficial. Payton notes the mental acuity and maturity of Nix: "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."
The Sacking Dilemma
One of the most pressing issues Payton needs to address is the protection of his quarterbacks. Russell Wilson, the Broncos’ current starter, was sacked an average of nearly 44 times per season during his initial 12-year career. This is a stark contrast to Brees, who was sacked more than 30 times in a single season only twice over his 20-year career and averaged just 22 sacks per season during his 19 years as a starter.
Payton’s philosophy places a significant amount of responsibility on the quarterback to avoid sacks. This outlook could spell a change in how Wilson prepares for and executes plays. Wilson’s ability to adapt could be key to reducing his sack numbers and, subsequently, the team’s overall performance.
Competition for Starting Role
While Wilson remains the presumed starter, Payton has introduced competition into the mix. Jarrett Stidham is currently vying for the starting job, pushing Wilson to elevate his game further. This competition is not just about performance but also about who best embodies the attributes Payton values in a quarterback – particularly those traits reminiscent of Brees.
The Road Ahead
Success for Payton means learning from the past and adapting his strategies to fit the talent and skills of his current roster. He knows that bringing out the best in his quarterbacks while refining their sack-avoidance techniques will be crucial.
Drew Brees is anticipated to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026, a feat that underscores the successful collaboration between him and Payton. As Payton works with the Broncos’ quarterbacks, his success with Brees serves as both a blueprint and a benchmark.
Payton’s second season with the Broncos will be telling. The comparisons with Brees offer a glimpse into the potential he sees in his players, particularly Bo Nix. If Payton can replicate even a fraction of his past success, the Denver Broncos might soon find themselves as formidable contenders in the NFL once again.