The Denver Broncos are heading into a pivotal offseason, and while most eyes are on potential roster moves, there’s a shift brewing behind the scenes that could reshape the entire offense. According to reports, head coach Sean Payton is seriously considering handing over play-calling duties to newly promoted offensive coordinator Davis Webb - a move that would mark a significant turning point in Denver’s offensive identity.
Let’s be clear: Sean Payton giving up the headset on Sundays would be a big deal. He’s been the architect of his offenses for years, dating back to his days in New Orleans.
His fingerprints have been all over Denver’s game plans since he arrived. But after a 2025 season that ended on a sour note - with rookie quarterback Bo Nix going down in the AFC Divisional Round and the Broncos falling short against the Patriots - there’s a real sense that something needs to change.
Enter Davis Webb.
Webb is one of the fastest-rising names in coaching circles. He’s just 31, but already drawing serious head coaching interest.
This offseason alone, he was in the mix for multiple top jobs. That kind of buzz doesn’t happen by accident.
Around the league, Webb is viewed as a sharp offensive mind with a knack for connecting with players - especially quarterbacks.
Now, with Joe Lombardi out and Webb stepping into the OC role, the Broncos have a unique opportunity. If Payton does indeed pass the play-calling baton, it’s a massive vote of confidence in Webb’s ability to lead the offense - and potentially a strategic move to keep him in Denver a little longer.
There’s urgency here. If Webb delivers in 2026, he might not be around in 2027.
The Broncos know that. Giving him the reins now could not only spark the offense but also give the team a clearer picture of their future coaching landscape.
And make no mistake, the offense could use a spark. Even before Nix’s injury, the unit was inconsistent - capable of explosive stretches, but also frustratingly stagnant at times. For a team with a playoff-caliber defense, the offense felt like it was still trying to find its identity.
Webb’s influence could help change that. He’s expected to bring a fresh voice, creative concepts, and a modernized approach that plays to Nix’s strengths. The rookie showed flashes of big-time potential in 2025, and pairing him with a young, innovative play-caller could be the jolt this offense needs to take the next step.
Of course, there’s risk involved. Giving up play-calling isn’t easy for a coach like Payton, who’s built his reputation on offensive mastery. But it’s also a sign of adaptability - and perhaps an acknowledgment that evolving is necessary if the Broncos want to keep pace in an AFC loaded with firepower.
The defense is already championship-caliber. If the offense can match that level - and if Webb proves to be the real deal as a play-caller - the Broncos could be looking at a serious run in 2026.
A healthy Bo Nix, a revamped offensive approach, and a defense that can go toe-to-toe with anyone? That’s a formula that could put Denver right back in the thick of the AFC title conversation.
This offseason is about more than just free agents and draft picks. It’s about vision. And if the Broncos’ vision includes Davis Webb calling plays, we might be witnessing the beginning of a new era in Denver - one with serious upside.