Tag: Sean Payton

Broncos’ football tradition and history were ‘very appealing’ to Sean Payton

Sean Payton joined the Broncos in part because of their football tradition and history, and now he’s got the franchise back on track.

When the Denver Broncos hired coach Sean Payton in 2023, the team had gone six straight years without a winning season and seven straight years without a playoff berth.

Payton went 8-9 in his first year on the job, two wins outside of a playoff spot. This year, the Broncos are 9-5 with three games remaining. Denver has already secured its first winning season since 2016. One more win would clinch the team’s first playoff berth since 2015.

Following a 31-13 win over the Indianapolis Colts, Payton was asked about the storied franchise returning to its winning ways.

“The appeal to me was the tradition here, the years of sustained success here and the importance of this game here,” Payton said. “You can only find a few cities you can say that about and then you find the right ownership group. There were certain things that were really important. The football tradition and history here was very appealing to me. I have known Peyton [Manning] and John [Elway] forever but it was somewhere where the fan base’s expectations were high.

“You want to be in New York, Los Angeles or Las Vegas if you’re in entertainment, you do not want to be in Rhode Island. If you are in this industry, you want to be somewhere where it is really important and the expectations are high. It is nice to get the ninth win. We will have some cupcakes for you guys as you leave and can go from there.”

Up next is a road game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday Night Football. The task is simple: Win and you’re in.

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Broncos CB Kris Abrams-Draine is ‘built for moments like this’

“He’s built for moments like this,” Broncos star cornerback Pat Surtain said of impressive rookie Kris Abrams-Draine.

The Denver Broncos seem to have done it again.

Three years ago, the Broncos used a first-round draft pick to select cornerback Pat Surtain. All-Pro.

Two years ago, Denver signed Ja’Quan McMillian as an undrafted free agent. Impressive slot cornerback.

Last year, the Broncos used a third-round pick to select Riley Moss. Pro Bowl-talent.

This year, Denver used a fifth-round pick to add Kris Abrams-Draine. So far so good.

With Moss (knee) sidelined, Abrams-Draine made his NFL debut in Week 13, then he saw extensive action in Week 15 coming out of the bye. He allowed just one catch for 11 yards in 34 coverage snaps on Sunday, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.

“The last two weeks, he showed some moxie, stayed with his guys, didn’t panic when the ball was in the air,” coach Sean Payton said this week. “There’s something about him and so … I was really encouraged.”

Abrams-Draine rotated with Damarri Mathis, who also played well on Sunday. Mathis has had an up-and-down tenure in Denver and he has one year left on his contract, so it’s no surprise that fans have focused on Abrams-Draine over the last two weeks.

“He’s developing very well,” Surtain said when asked about Abrams-Draine last week. “He’s learning fast. He’s played a good amount of ball — a great amount of ball actually in the SEC. He’s built for moments like this. To see him out there with those few snaps, I think he did pretty good.”

The 23-year-old defensive back appears to have a bright future ahead of him, and the Broncos might just have the best cornerback room in the NFL.

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Sean Payton had a surprising response to Bo Nix’s three interceptions

Broncos coach Sean Payton put blame on himself for quarterback Bo Nix’s three interceptions against the Colts.

Denver Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix struggled for most of Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts, throwing a career-high three interceptions.

Nix and the Broncos were able to overcome those turnovers — thanks in large part to five takeaways of their own — in an eventual 31-13 win. Following the game, coach Sean Payton had a somewhat surprising reaction to Nix’s interceptions, taking some of the blame on himself.

“Listen, I get mad at myself,” Payton said when asked about Nix’s interceptions. “A couple of the calls I gave him. He has one read that he knows better. It was just one of those nights where we weren’t as efficient, especially against a zone defense like that. You’re not going to hit as many big plays.

“I think early on he was like 6-for-8, but then there were some forced throws and then a few calls that were dumb by me. I have to be better.”

Nix obviously needs to make better decisions and more accurate passes, but Payton acknowledged that his play-calling had a hand in the turnovers. Fortunately, Nix bounced back and ended the day with three touchdown passes.

“This is a tough league sometimes,” Payton said. “I felt afterwards, something like that happens with that adversity early on, I get frustrated at myself, ‘Am I giving him the right looks, the right plays?’ Then later in that game when we needed it, he didn’t flinch. There’s a maturity and a moxie about him which I love. I think it’s contagious to the team.

“When you have that at the quarterback position, your team knows you’re in every game. When you don’t have it, it’s pretty difficult because deep down in their belly they know that’s not the case. That’s something you notice with this year especially and with this team.”

Nix now has 20 passing touchdowns this season (along with four rushing and one receiving) against 11 interceptions. He’ll look to take another step forward when the Broncos face the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday Night Football in Week 16.

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Sean Payton hints Broncos-Bengals game will be flexed to NFL Network

Sean Payton expects the Broncos-Bengals game in Week 17 to be flexed to a Saturday window on NFL Network.

Get ready to watch the Denver Broncos in a pair of nationally-televised games with Christmas right in the middle.

The Broncos are currently scheduled to play the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday Night Football on Dec. 19. Nine days later, Denver is expected to play the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, Dec. 28 as part of NFL Network’s triple header of games in Week 17.

“Christmas is always the challenge in the NFL, period,” Broncos coach Sean Payton said during a conference call with reporters on Monday when asked about the team’s upcoming schedule. “All I wanted them to know is we think we’re playing the Bengals on a Saturday. I don’t know if it’s been announced yet or not, but we’re just trying to manage the Thursday game and then the Saturday game so these guys can at least have answers for their wives. That was really the whole point of it.

“The focus obviously for us is this Thursday. For them with family traveling and whatnot… We’re basically going to next week create… Pretend Saturday is a Sunday and work backwards. Tuesday is going to be like a Wednesday for us, you guys. Wednesday will be like a Thursday. Thursday will be like a Friday, and Friday will be like a Saturday, and we’ll travel.”

The Broncos-Bengals matchup is one of five games in contention to be flexed into three Saturday windows on NFLN on Dec. 28. Payton expects the game to be flexed, with an announcement likely coming soon.

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Broncos players laugh about Jonathan Taylor’s ‘early Christmas present’

Jonathan Taylor’s fumble was “an early Christmas present,” leaving Broncos players all in smiles in the locker room after the win.

Early in the third quarter of Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor ripped off a 41-yard touchdown run to give his team a 13-point lead. Well, almost.

After review, officials determined that Taylor dropped the ball just before crossing the goal line. Taylor’s fumble rolled out of the end zone for a touchback. So instead of scoring a touchdown, Taylor gave the ball back to Denver.

Following that game-altering play, the Broncos went on to score 24 unanswered points in an eventual 31-13 victory. Denver coach Sean Payton was flabbergasted when asked about the play after the game.

“That was significant,” Payton said. “I don’t get it, but I’m not going to try to. That was a significant play that you go from breaking a long run for a touchdown for your team to us having the ball.”

Payton was asked if the play could be a teachable moment for his own players.

“Fair question,” Payton said. “I cannot recall covering that. It would not be a teaching point. I think that will be difficult for the coaches and every one of his teammates. It’ll just be difficult, I don’t get it. I’ll leave it at that. I don’t want to say something.”

At the risk of putting words in the coach’s mouth, it seemed that Payton might have been suggesting such a scenario shouldn’t even need to be taught because it’s common sense to not drop the ball before you score. Those are Broncos Wire’s words, though, as Payton was careful to not say too much.

Denver’s players, on the other hand, weren’t quite as diplomatic.

Broncos pass rusher Jonathon Cooper gave Taylor a shoutout in the locker room, Nik Bonitto said he was happy the running back bailed out the defense and safety P.J. Locke thanked the “football Gods.” Everyone had big smiles when asked about the play.

The best reaction of the night came from defensive back Brandon Jones.

“I think it was kind of fitting for the kind of season it is,” Jones said, via Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette. “It’s an early Christmas present, which we are super grateful for it and we appreciated it so much.”

Denver defensive lineman John-Franklin Myers also had a great reaction:

Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton said any Denver players who made such a blunder would have to answer to the wrath of Payton.

As for Taylor himself, the running back took responsibility for the blunder.

“It just can’t happen,” Taylor said. “No matter the game, no matter the scenario, you could be up 50, down by 50, in a playoff game, the first game of the season. That should never happen.”

Taylor said he apologized to his teammates and vowed never to let it happen again.

“I told them, I apologized, and I just know that it will never happen again,” the running back said. “That has never happened to me before, and it will never happen again.”

The Broncos are now just one more win away from clinching a spot in the NFL playoffs. Indy’s postseason hopes are now all but dead.

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Broncos’ depth chart for Colts game

Here’s a look at the Broncos’ updated depth chart going into Colts game.

After beating the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football in Week 13 and having a bye in Week 14, the Denver Broncos are now set to host the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15.

The most notable changes to the updated depth chart this week are Zach Cunningham being listed behind Justin Strnad at inside linebacker, and Drew Sanders being added to the outside linebacker room. There was some uncertainty about whether Sanders would play as an OLB or ILB after returning from the physically unable to perform list.

Following those two additions, here’s a look at the Broncos’ depth chart going into the Colts game.

Broncos offensive depth chart

WR Marvin Mims Troy Franklin
LT Garett Bolles Matt Peart
LG Ben Powers Nick Gargiulo
C Luke Wattenberg Alex Forsyth
RG Quinn Meinerz Alex Palczewski
RT Mike McGlinchey Frank Crum
TE Adam Trautman Lucas Krull
WR Courtland Sutton Lil’Jordan Humphrey Devaughn Vele
RB Javonte Williams Jaleel McLaughlin Audric Estime
FB Michael Burton Nate Adkins
QB Bo Nix Jarrett Stidham Zach Wilson

Broncos defensive depth chart

DE Zach Allen Jordan Jackson
NT D.J. Jones Malcolm Roach
DE John Franklin-Myers Eyioma Uwazurike
SLB Jonathon Cooper Jonah Elliss Drew Sanders
WLB Nik Bonitto Dondrea Tillman
ILB Justin Strnad Zach Cunningham
ILB Cody Barton Levelle Bailey
LCB Pat Surtain Levi Wallace Tremon Smith
RCB Riley Moss Damarri Mathis Kris Abrams-Draine Reese Taylor
NCB Ja’Quan McMillian
S P.J. Locke JL Skinner
S Brandon Jones Devon Key

Broncos special teams depth chart

PK Wil Lutz
KO Wil Lutz
P Riley Dixon
H Riley Dixon
LS Mitchell Fraboni
KR Marvin Mims Tremon Smith Jaleel McLaughlin
PR Marvin Mims Tremon Smith

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS. Playing at home, Denver is considered a favorite against Indianapolis this week.

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Sean Payton comments on Bill Belichick joining UNC Tar Heels

“I’m a big fan of his and I think the world of him,” Broncos coach Sean Payton said of new UNC Tar Heels coach Bill Belichick.

The North Carolina Tar Heels made a huge splash on Wednesday by hiring eight-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick as their new head coach.

Belichick, 72, coached in the NFL from 1975-2023, including a stint as an assistant special teams coordinator and defensive assistant with the Denver Broncos in 1978. He is known for serving as the head coach of the New England Patriots from 2000-2023, winning six Super Bowls.

During his time in New England, Belichick faced Sean Payton’s New Orleans Saints and, more recently, Payton’s Broncos. Following reports of Belichick joining UNC, Payton was asked about Belichick landing a college football job after Wednesday’s practice.

“I haven’t [spoken to him yet],” Payton said. “I’ve only heard the news like you all have. I’m sure he’s got a plan and he’s going to do what’s best. Obviously, I’m a big fan of his and I think the world of him, but I’ve only heard what you guys have heard. I haven’t had a chance to talk to him lately.”

Belichick will make his NCAA debut when the Tar Heels host the TCU Horned Frogs on Saturday, Aug. 30 in their 2025 season opener.

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Early rankings of Broncos’ needs in 2025 NFL draft

Do you agree with our list of top needs for the Broncos in the 2025 NFL draft?

The Denver Broncos (8-5) still have four regular season games remaining and then a potential playoff run, but it’s never too early to look ahead to the next NFL draft. Today, we’re taking a quick look at our early rankings of the Broncos’ top needs in the 2025 NFL draft.

1. Offensive tackle: This one comes with a caveat because it’s largely dependent on whether or not the Broncos re-sign Garett Bolles in 2025.

2. Tight end: Denver has gotten little production from the tight end this fall and the team could use a playmaker at the position.

3. Running back: Javonte Williams has not returned to his pre-injury form and he’s scheduled to become a free agent in 2025. It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Broncos use an early pick on a RB in April.

4. Wide receiver: Courtland Sutton remains Mr. Reliable, but Denver needs a dynamic receiver to pair with him. Devaughn Vele has the potential to be a very good WR3. Now the Broncos need a top talent.

5. Inside linebacker: Alex Singleton will be 31 years old and coming off a serious injury in 2025. Cody Barton will be a 28-year-old free agent. Even if both are back and starting in 2025, Denver should start planning for the future.

6. Defensive back: The Broncos need more competition and depth at safety, and the team’s cornerback depth is also thin.

7. Defensive line: Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers are both under contract for next season, but D.J. Jones is scheduled to hit free agency. Even if Denver is confident in Malcolm Roach stepping up, the team will still need to add more depth to the defensive line.

Agree or disagree with the rankings? Share your thoughts with us on Twitter: @TheBroncosWire.

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Broncos’ depth chart ahead of Colts game

Here’s a look at the Broncos’ updated depth chart going into Colts game.

After beating the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football in Week 13 and having a bye in Week 14, the Denver Broncos are now set to host the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15.

The most notable changes to the updated depth chart his week are Zach Cunningham being listed behind Justin Strnad at inside linebacker and Drew Sanders being added to the outside linebacker room. There was some uncertainty about whether Sanders would play as an OLB or ILB after returning from the physically unable to perform list.

Following those two additions, here’s a look at the Broncos’ depth chart going into the Colts game.

Broncos offensive depth chart

WR Marvin Mims Troy Franklin
LT Garett Bolles Matt Peart
LG Ben Powers
C Luke Wattenberg Alex Forsyth
RG Quinn Meinerz Alex Palczewski
RT Mike McGlinchey Frank Crum
TE Adam Trautman Lucas Krull
WR Courtland Sutton Lil’Jordan Humphrey Devaughn Vele
RB Javonte Williams Jaleel McLaughlin Audric Estime
FB Michael Burton Nate Adkins
QB Bo Nix Jarrett Stidham Zach Wilson

Broncos defensive depth chart

DE Zach Allen Jordan Jackson
NT D.J. Jones Malcolm Roach
DE John Franklin-Myers Eyioma Uwazurike
SLB Jonathon Cooper Jonah Elliss Drew Sanders
WLB Nik Bonitto Dondrea Tillman
ILB Justin Strnad Zach Cunningham
ILB Cody Barton Levelle Bailey
LCB Pat Surtain Levi Wallace Tremon Smith
RCB Riley Moss Damarri Mathis Kris Abrams-Draine
NCB Ja’Quan McMillian
S P.J. Locke JL Skinner
S Brandon Jones Devon Key

Broncos special teams depth chart

PK Wil Lutz
KO Wil Lutz
P Riley Dixon
H Riley Dixon
LS Mitchell Fraboni
KR Marvin Mims Tremon Smith Jaleel McLaughlin
PR Marvin Mims Tremon Smith

Sunday’s game will be regionally televised on CBS. Playing at home, Denver is considered a favorite against Indianapolis this week.

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Sean Payton explains decision to cut Josh Reynolds

“We would have liked to have been able to keep him, but as guys got healthy and came from injured reserve, we had to have space.”

Last week, the Denver Broncos cut veteran wide receiver Josh Reynolds just before his deadline to return from injured reserve.

It was a somewhat surprising decision, but if the Broncos did not activate Reynolds to the 53-man roster, the two alternatives were cutting him or leaving him on IR for the rest of the season. By waiving him, Denver gave Reynolds an opportunity to continue playing in 2024, and he was picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Coming out of the bye week, Broncos coach Sean Payton was asked about the team’s decision to waive Reynolds.

“From a roster management standpoint with Josh, it just became a numbers game,” Payton explained. “He’s done a great job. We would have liked to have been able to keep him, but as guys got healthy and came from injured reserve, we had to have space. Some of the younger guys have been playing well, and I wish him the best. He’s one of those guys that helped us get to where we’re at right now.”

Courtland Sutton remains the team’s No. 1 receiver with rookie Devaughn Vele is emerging as a promising No. 2. Lil’Jordan Humphrey is a key blocker, Marvin Mims has seen his role grow this season and Troy Franklin continues to develop. With a crowded WR room and other players returning from injuries, Denver did not have room for Reynolds.

Reynolds hauled in 12 receptions for 183 yards and one touchdown in five games with the Broncos this season. He thanked the team on social media for his time in Denver after being cut last week.

Payton also recently spoke about the departure of linebacker Kwon Alexander. Last month, after the Broncos promoted linebacker Zach Cunningham from the practice squad to their active roster, Alexander joined the Detroit Lions’ active roster.

“I’m happy for Kwon,” Payton said on Nov. 30. “I had a good visit with him. We’ve been together before, and it’s a good opportunity for him, but we knew this was coming with Zach.”

Reynolds and Alexander will now get fresh starts in Jacksonville and Detroit, respectively, as the Broncos move forward with their in-house players.

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