Broncos head coach Sean Payton resumes play-calling duties amid offensive struggles
Sean Payton announced he will again call offensive plays for Denver after a 2-2 start, replacing offensive coordinator Davis Webb ahead of the team's matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Denver head coach Sean Payton told reporters Thursday that he will assume play-calling responsibilities for the Broncos moving forward, after the team’s offense has underperformed in the first four games of the 2026 season. The decision follows a 2-2 start and a ranking of 27th in the league for both total offense and scoring offense.
Payton, who handled play-calling during his initial three seasons as head coach, had delegated the role to offensive coordinator Davis Webb at the start of the campaign. Webb, a former quarterback who served as Denver’s quarterbacks coach from 2023 to 2025 and as pass-game coordinator last season, was promoted to offensive coordinator before the season began.
The Broncos’ offensive output has declined sharply from a top-10 ranking in both categories in 2024 and 2025 to the current 27th place. Quarterback Bo Nix is completing 60.0 percent of his passes for 819 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions. The rushing attack has also been limited, with running back JK Dobbins leading the team with 161 yards and Denver ranking 29th in rushing yards per game.
The coaching change comes as Denver prepares to travel to Los Angeles to face the Chargers, who are 0-4. A win would be crucial for the Broncos, who are trying to stay within striking distance of division rivals.
"We need to get back to the level of play we know we can produce," Payton said after the announcement.
The move also aims to retain Webb, who had attracted interest for head-coaching and other offensive coordinator positions during the offseason.