Payton's Denver Journey: Reflecting on Brees, Eyeing Nix
Sean Payton is setting foot into his second season with the Denver Broncos, building upon a storied career that saw immense success in New Orleans with Drew Brees at the helm. The transition hasn't been easy; his inaugural year with the Broncos was rife with challenges. Nevertheless, Payton's eye for talent and quarterback aptitude remains sharp as he draws comparisons between his former superstar, Brees, and the rising potential of Bo Nix.
Brees, a future Pro Football Hall of Famer expected to be inducted in 2026, was a cornerstone of Payton's success in New Orleans. Brees's numbers speak for themselves, having been sacked more than 30 times in just two seasons over a stellar 20-year career. On average, Brees endured only 22 sacks per season during his 19 years as a starter. This ability to avoid sacks is something Payton highly values, and it's a quality he sees in Bo Nix as well.
"I used to say this all the time: The sack numbers are a reflection more on the quarterback than the offensive line," Payton remarked. "Brees was one of those guys, he was a tough sack. The ball came out, and I think Bo has traits like that."
Russell Wilson, the current quarterback for the Broncos, experienced a rough 12-year career span where he averaged nearly 44 sacks per season. Wilson's difficulties in avoiding sacks are a stark contrast to Brees, highlighting the importance of a quarterback’s pocket awareness and decision-making ability. Wilson’s struggles set a high benchmark for what Nix must deliver if he’s to step into the role successfully.
Nix, the 12th overall pick in April's draft, brings with him an impressive college resume, having played 61 games. This extensive experience is something Payton believes gives Nix a level of maturity and readiness that's crucial for a seamless transition to the professional level.
"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 noted.
Jarrett Stidham, presently competing for the Broncos' starting job, adds another layer of intrigue to Denver’s quarterback situation. The competition should spur excellence, pushing each contender to showcase their best abilities.
One of the most defining traits Payton sees in Nix is his pocket sense, a skill that greatly reduces the likelihood of sacks. "You see pretty good pocket sense. Doesn't take a lot of sacks. I think he knows when the play's over, time to go, and then, I think he can make plays when he's going," Payton observed.
As Payton progresses into his second year with the Broncos, much of his focus will undoubtedly be on refining the quarterback position. The belief that a quarterback's awareness and decision-making are pivotal will be a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy. This insight, shaped by his successful partnership with Brees, is now being applied to mold the next generation of Broncos quarterbacks, including Nix.
The narrative emerging in Denver is one of cautious optimism. With Payton at the helm, knowledge gained from years of NFL experience, and the promising talent of players like Nix and Stidham, the Broncos aim to overcome the difficulties of the previous season. The journey to return Denver to its former glory is underway, and Payton’s vision is clear. As Nix steps into the professional arena, the lessons and traits from Brees's legacy will serve as a guiding light for what the Broncos hope will be a bright future.