Sean Payton Gears Up for Year Two with Denver Broncos
As Sean Payton embarks on his second season at the helm of the Denver Broncos, the seasoned coach brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for developing quarterbacks. His storied tenure with the New Orleans Saints saw him achieve immense success, particularly in partnership with future Hall of Famer Drew Brees. Now, Payton is drawing interesting parallels between Brees and the Broncos' new prospect, Bo Nix.
Comparing Quarterbacks: Brees and Nix
Payton's comparison between Drew Brees and Bo Nix is not without merit. During their time together at the Saints, Brees demonstrated exceptional pocket awareness and an ability to avoid sacks, traits that Payton sees mirrored in Nix. "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 noted.
Despite Nix's nascent career, the young quarterback already shows promise. Having played 61 college games, his experience is evident, and he appeared mature beyond his years during the draft process, being selected 12th overall in April. Payton admires Nix's mental acuity and readiness to absorb information rapidly, drawing a comparison to a young Brees who joined the Saints fresh off a rookie contract and an injury. "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 explained.
Challenges in Denver
Payton's first year with the Broncos was fraught with challenges. Transitioning to a new team often comes with growing pains, and Denver was no exception. Protecting the quarterback has been a significant issue, with Russell Wilson enduring an average of nearly 44 sacks per season over his 12-year career. In contrast, Brees was sacked more than 30 times in a single season only twice over his impressive 20-year career, averaging just 22 sacks per season during his 19 years as a starter.
These stark differences highlight why Payton's philosophy regarding quarterbacks and sack numbers is crucial. He emphasizes the importance of a quarterback's pocket sense and decision-making skills. "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," he said, referring to Nix's potential to excel in these areas.
Jarrett Stidham's Competition
Competition within the team is also heating up, with Jarrett Stidham vying for the starting role. Stidham is determined to prove his worth and secure his place on the roster, adding another layer of intrigue to the Broncos' preparations for the new season.
Drawing from the Past
As Payton prepares for another season, he undoubtedly draws from his extensive experience and past successes. His ability to nurture and develop quarterbacks could be the key to unlocking the Broncos' potential. With Brees destined for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026, Payton's legacy is already etched in NFL history. Now, the focus shifts to whether he can replicate such success with Denver and guide the team to new heights.
The comparisons between Brees and Nix serve as a reminder of Payton's knack for identifying and cultivating talent. As the second season under his leadership unfolds, all eyes will be on how these young prospects, including Nix, perform and whether they can rise to the occasion as Brees once did. For the Broncos, this season holds the promise of growth and the hope of overcoming past adversities under the watchful and experienced eye of Sean Payton.