NFL News | Denver Broncos | Updated October 28, 2026
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has taken back offensive play-calling responsibilities from coordinator Davis Webb following an inconsistent start to the 2026 NFL season.
Payton confirmed the decision on October 8, ending Webb's four-game stint as the team's primary play-caller. The move followed Denver's 2-2 start, with quarterback Bo Nix and the offense struggling to produce sustained drives and consistent scoring opportunities.
Since the change, Denver has won three consecutive games to improve to 5-2. However, questions remain about whether Payton's return to play-calling will deliver the offensive improvement needed for a serious postseason run.
Why Did Sean Payton Take Over Broncos Play-Calling?
The decision came after Denver's disappointing offensive performances during the first four weeks of the 2026 season.
The Broncos ranked near the bottom of the NFL in several major offensive categories. Their inability to consistently move the football placed additional pressure on a team entering the season with high expectations.
Through four games, Denver averaged just 280.3 total offensive yards and 16.8 offensive points per game.
Slow starts were another major problem. The Broncos managed only 13 first-half points during that four-game stretch, regularly forcing themselves into difficult situations.
Payton believed the team needed a different approach to play selection, execution and overall offensive coordination.
Speaking to reporters on October 8, Payton confirmed the change:
"We'll make a change offensively. I'll call the plays."
His decision restored a familiar arrangement after an offseason experiment designed to give Webb greater responsibility.
What Happens to Offensive Coordinator Davis Webb?
Despite losing primary play-calling duties, Davis Webb remains an important member of Denver's coaching staff.
Webb, who became the Broncos' offensive coordinator ahead of the 2026 season, continues to contribute to weekly game plans, offensive preparation and communication between coaches and players.
Payton has publicly praised Webb's coaching ability and indicated that he believes the young coordinator has the potential to become an NFL head coach in the future.
The move is therefore better understood as a change in responsibilities rather than a complete organizational reset.
Webb acknowledged his disappointment after the decision but emphasized his commitment to helping the Broncos improve.
For Denver, maintaining a productive working relationship between Payton and Webb will be essential as the team continues adjusting its offensive strategy.
How Does the Change Affect Quarterback Bo Nix?
Bo Nix is one of the players most directly affected by the coaching adjustment.
With Payton calling plays again, Nix receives offensive instructions directly from the head coach during games.
The arrangement gives Payton more immediate control over the quarterback's decisions, offensive tempo and situational play selection.
During Denver's opening four games, Nix completed 60% of his passes, throwing five touchdowns and three interceptions.
The Broncos also struggled to generate explosive plays, making it difficult to consistently challenge opposing defenses.
Three Areas Denver Needs to Improve
1. More consistent passing production
Denver needs to create more opportunities beyond short completions and underneath routes. A more effective downfield passing attack could prevent defenses from concentrating near the line of scrimmage.
2. Better early-down execution
Positive gains on first and second down can help the Broncos avoid predictable third-and-long situations.
3. Improved offensive balance
Establishing a dependable running game would ease pressure on Nix and allow Denver to use play-action opportunities more effectively.
While coaching adjustments may help, improved execution from the entire offense remains critical.
Broncos Results Since Sean Payton Returned to Play-Calling
Denver has produced positive results since the change, winning three consecutive games.
| Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| October 11 | Los Angeles Chargers | Won 23-17 |
| October 15 | Seattle Seahawks | Won 17-14 |
| October 25 | Arizona Cardinals | Won 30-16 |
The victories improved the Broncos' record from 2-2 to 5-2.
However, the winning streak does not automatically mean Denver's offensive problems have disappeared.
The Broncos generated only 224 total offensive yards against the Chargers in Payton's first game back as play-caller. Nix also finished with modest passing totals against both Los Angeles and Seattle.
The October 25 victory over Arizona provided a more encouraging offensive performance. Nix threw for 222 yards and added 73 rushing yards, including a rushing touchdown.
The next challenge is translating those individual improvements into consistent production against stronger opponents.
Can Sean Payton Restore Denver's Championship Ambitions?
Payton brings extensive experience as an offensive strategist, including his successful tenure with the New Orleans Saints.
His return provides the Broncos with an experienced play-caller who understands the team's personnel and offensive system.
But winning games consistently requires more than coaching experience.
Denver must improve its rushing efficiency, reduce unsuccessful drives and create more explosive scoring opportunities.
The offense must also show that it can perform under pressure against quality defenses.
The Broncos' recent winning streak gives the coaching staff a promising foundation, although the quality of their offensive execution will remain a major storyline throughout the season.
What's Next for the Denver Broncos?
Denver's next scheduled game is a home matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on November 1, 2026.
That AFC West contest will provide another important test of Payton's offensive approach.
With Denver entering the game at 5-2, the stakes extend beyond evaluating the play-calling change. The Broncos have an opportunity to strengthen their position in the division.
A strong performance from Nix and the offense would offer additional evidence that the coaching adjustment is delivering progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sean Payton Calling Plays for the Broncos Again?
Yes. Sean Payton announced on October 8, 2026, that he would resume primary offensive play-calling responsibilities, beginning with Denver's Week 5 game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Why Did the Broncos Replace Davis Webb as Play-Caller?
Denver's offense struggled during the first four games, particularly in scoring, sustaining drives and generating consistent yardage. Payton decided a change was necessary.
Is Davis Webb Still the Broncos' Offensive Coordinator?
Yes. Webb remains Denver's offensive coordinator and continues contributing to offensive preparation and game planning.
How Have the Broncos Performed Since the Change?
Denver won its first three games after Payton resumed play-calling, defeating the Chargers, Seahawks and Cardinals to improve its record to 5-2.
Who Is the Broncos' Starting Quarterback?
Bo Nix remains Denver's starting quarterback and continues to work with Payton and the offensive coaching staff.
Final Thoughts
Sean Payton's decision to reclaim play-calling duties represents one of Denver's most significant coaching adjustments of the 2026 season.
The Broncos have responded with three consecutive victories, but the offense still needs to demonstrate greater consistency.
Payton's experience, Webb's continued involvement and Bo Nix's development will all play important roles in determining whether Denver can translate its improving record into postseason success.
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Sources: Denver Broncos official announcement | Original report from The Athletic | NFL 2026 Broncos schedule
