Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has delegated play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Davis Webb, a significant adjustment as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL season. This decision comes less than two weeks before the Broncos’ season opener on September 14 against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium.
Payton, 62, made the announcement ahead of the preseason opener, explaining that the move was intended to leverage Webb’s fresh perspective and quicker decision-making ability. Webb, 31, was promoted to offensive coordinator during the offseason after the departure of Pete Carmichael, who left for the Buffalo Bills. Payton expressed confidence in Webb’s readiness for the role, emphasizing the need for the Broncos to maximize their chances of winning given the team’s strong roster. “I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t think it was going to help us win,” Payton said.
For Payton, a highly experienced play-caller with a successful track record that includes a Super Bowl title and multiple playoff appearances, the transition represents a major shift. He acknowledged that the change still feels unusual, likening it to a celebrated player stepping away from their signature role. Nevertheless, Payton intends to adapt by becoming a more strategic game manager, focusing on the broader aspects of team preparation and in-game adjustments rather than overseeing every offensive play.
The Broncos concluded the previous season with a 14-3 record and earned the AFC’s No. 1 seed. Maintaining that level of performance is paramount, as they face a challenging early schedule that includes games against the defending AFC South champion Jacksonville Jaguars, Super Bowl favorite Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Chargers, and defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.
Despite relinquishing play-calling responsibilities, Payton will remain engaged in weekly game planning and will have input on specific plays and strategies. He acknowledged that Webb must have the autonomy to call plays on game day to be most effective. “I can’t micromanage that,” Payton said.
The decision followed a notable AFC Championship Game last season, where some critical in-game choices, including a controversial fourth-and-1 call and a decision not to attempt an early field goal, influenced the outcome. Though Payton did not explicitly cite that game in discussing the change, the move appears aimed at injecting new energy and creativity into the Broncos’ offense.
Payton’s extensive experience includes a period calling plays under Bill Parcells during his time with the Dallas Cowboys, as well as two previous occasions relinquishing play-calling duties while head coach of the New Orleans Saints. In both cases, the team’s offensive coordinator stepped in effectively, notably in 2011 when an injury forced Payton to temporarily hand over responsibilities.
Payton’s optimism about the Broncos’ prospects remains high, citing a balanced roster featuring a strong defense and new addition Jaylen Waddle at wide receiver. He expressed confidence in quarterback Bo Nix and the team’s potential to compete for a Super Bowl. “Man, I like this team. This team can win a Super Bowl. And this QB can,” Payton said.
As the season begins, the Broncos aim to start strongly under this new arrangement, with Payton emphasizing that there will be no tolerance for slow starts or growing pains. “We don’t have time for growing pains here. We’ve got to be on point,” he said. The coaching change will be closely watched as Denver looks to maintain its status as a top contender in the AFC.