Sean Payton Reclaims Broncos Playcalling Duties to Spark Sputtering Offense

Sean Payton announced Thursday he is taking over playcalling for the Denver Broncos, replacing offensive coordinator Davis Webb in that role.

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton announced Thursday he will take over offensive playcalling duties starting with Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The move ends a four-game stint for offensive coordinator Davis Webb as the primary playcaller. Payton informed Webb and the offensive staff of the change on Monday following a 2-2 start to the season.

Denver’s offense currently ranks 27th in the NFL in scoring and total yards per game. The unit is 29th in rushing yards per game and 30th in explosive plays, recording only 16 gains of at least 10 rushing yards or 20 passing yards. Additionally, 27.5% of the team's possessions have resulted in three-and-out punts, the seventh-highest rate in the league. The Broncos have struggled with an Offensive EPA of -7.48, which ranks 22nd overall.

Quarterback Bo Nix enters Week 5 ranked 22nd in QBR at 46.1 and 27th in average air yards per attempt at 5.9. Payton cited a lack of consistency in the run game and poor execution on first down as primary frustrations leading to his decision. While the Broncos faced four top-10 scoring defenses in their opening month, including No. 2 Jacksonville and No. 3 San Francisco, they now face a Chargers defense ranked 24th in points allowed.