Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton is done waiting for the offense to find its rhythm. After a frustrating 2-2 start, Payton is reportedly stepping in and taking over playcalling duties himself, a move that signals both urgency and a belief that he's still the best man for the job.
According to Brandon Stokley of Denver Sports 104.3, Payton will call the plays for Sunday's matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, stripping first-year offensive coordinator Davis Webb of those responsibilities. Stokley shared the news on X, writing, "I'm hearing that Sean Payton is going to be taking over play calling this week. Should be an interesting week."
The decision comes as Denver's offense has sputtered through the first quarter of the season, ranking 27th in both yards and points per game. While the running game has shown improvement—jumping from 17th to 8th in EPA per rush—the passing attack has regressed significantly, falling from 10th to 22nd in EPA per dropback. Points per drive? A dismal 27th.
Broncos fans, however, are skeptical that a simple change in playcaller will solve the deeper issues. One fan wrote, "I don't understand how anyone who actually watched the last two years thinks that's gonna change anything. The offense looks the same as it did through the first 4 weeks the last two seasons." Another echoed, "I don't think it's simply play calling. We had a very similar theme last year, slow early then finish strong."
Payton's move isn't just about the offense, though. The defense, which was a top-3 unit under Vance Joseph last season, has slipped to the bottom half of the league. That's a troubling trend for a team that hoped to lean on its defense while the offense found its footing. The pressure is mounting, and Payton knows it.
This isn't the first time Payton has had to recalibrate his coaching staff. Earlier this year, he faced criticism for his handling of the 2026 coaching staff decisions, and he's been candid about his role in past controversies, including the Brees comeback plan that left him feeling like the odd man out. But now, the focus is squarely on the present.
If the Broncos can't turn things around quickly, the schedule doesn't get any easier. After the Chargers, they face a tough stretch that could make or break their playoff hopes. A loss at SoFi Stadium would be concerning, but a home rematch with the Chiefs in November looms large. As one fan put it, "It better be Stoke, because if we lose at SoFi, going into that Seahawks game? Yikes brother. Playoffs are in jeopardy."
Payton's track record suggests he thrives in these moments. He's a Super Bowl-winning coach who has never shied away from taking control. But the question remains: can he fix what's broken in just one week? The NFL is a results-driven league, and Payton knows that patience is wearing thin in Denver.
For now, all eyes will be on the Broncos' sideline Sunday, where Payton will be calling the shots. Whether that translates into points remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—he's not going down without a fight.
