sportingnews
The Denver Broncos sit at 2-2 after four weeks, but the team is already feeling the heat. With star cornerback Patrick Surtain II sidelined for several weeks and the offense sputtering, pressure is mounting in Denver.
Offensive coordinator Davis Webb, who also handles play-calling duties, has faced criticism for the unit's lackluster performance. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, head coach Sean Payton has seen enough and is making a change.
Payton is reportedly taking on a more significant role in offensive play-calling this week, as the Broncos make a major adjustment to their offense just four games into the season. "Broncos coach Sean Payton will be more heavily involved in offensive play-calling this week, sources told me and @MikeGarafolo," Rapoport reported. "The process will remain collaborative, with OC Davis Webb continuing to be a major voice on game day and during the week. But Payton will have say."
While Rapoport's report doesn't explicitly state that Payton is taking over full play-calling duties, the implication is clear: this is becoming Payton's offense. Webb is still expected to play a significant role, but with Payton increasing his involvement, the Broncos are signaling a readiness for change after just four weeks.
Key Analysis
Denver's offense has mustered only 74 points (18.5 per game), while the defense has allowed 23.5 points per game, putting the team in a tough spot. However, the schedule has been brutal: the Chiefs, Jaguars, Rams, and 49ers all boast potential top-10 defenses. Struggling against such competition isn't shocking, but other issues are concerning. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix appears to be regressing, wide receivers Jaylen Waddle and Courtland Sutton are not as involved as they should be, and the run game is averaging a mere 81.3 yards per game. Given these struggles, a change makes sense. Payton is a seasoned NFL coach, and if he sees something worrisome, adjusting the offense is a logical move. Rapoport's report suggests a collaborative approach between Payton and Webb, but fans should expect Payton's influence to grow as the Broncos try to revive their struggling offense.
Originally reported by sportingnews.