NFL

Sean Payton focuses on execution over play-calling as Broncos offense struggles

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 8, 2026, 04:53 IST

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton says the team's offensive woes are rooted in attention to detail rather than play-calling, as the squad looks to improve after a disappointing 2-2 start to the season.

Sean Payton focuses on execution over play-calling as Broncos offense struggles

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has dismissed speculation regarding a potential change in play-calling duties, insisting that the team’s offensive shortcomings are a result of poor execution and a lack of attention to detail. Following a 2-2 start to the season, Payton emphasized that the primary focus must remain on correcting the specific errors occurring on each snap rather than shifting responsibilities within the coaching staff.

The Broncos currently sit near the bottom of the NFL in several key offensive metrics, ranking 27th in both scoring and total yards per game. With the team also struggling to generate explosive plays—ranking 30th in the league with only 16 plays of 20 or more yards—pressure has mounted to find a solution. Despite these challenges, Payton expressed confidence in offensive coordinator Davis Webb, noting that his staff understands the system and that the priority is evaluating the root causes of the team's inconsistent performance.

Addressing the offensive slump

Payton was candid about the current state of the offense, acknowledging that the level of play has not met the standard of championship-caliber football. He maintained that the solution lies in the finer points of the game, stating that the coaching staff is working to identify the reasons behind the struggles after a four-game sample size. The head coach reiterated that regardless of who is calling the plays, the players and coaches must collectively improve their precision and execution on the field.

Quarterback Bo Nix has faced significant scrutiny during this stretch, currently ranking 22nd in QBR and 27th in average air yards per attempt. However, teammates have stepped up to defend the rookie signal-caller. Wide receiver Courtland Sutton emphasized that the offensive difficulties are a shared responsibility, noting that the entire unit must be held accountable for the lack of production. Nix echoed this sentiment, stating that he is prioritizing feedback from his coaches and teammates over external criticism, focusing his attention on the internal efforts to improve the team's performance moving forward.