In the ever-evolving world of NFL quarterback training, personal QB coaches have become a staple for many athletes looking to refine their skills beyond the team environment. Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix exemplifies this trend by working with renowned coaches David Morris and Tom House during his personal time. These sessions take place away from the Broncos' facilities, where the team's own coaching staff holds court.
When Sean Payton took the reins as head coach in 2023, he made headlines by removing Russell Wilson's personal QB coach, Jake Heaps, from the team's premises. Fast forward three years, and Payton shared his thoughts on personal QB coaches at the recent NFL Combine.
Reflecting on his early days in the league, Payton recounted a memorable experience from 1997. As a fresh face with the Philadelphia Eagles, he was tasked by Jon Gruden to evaluate quarterback Jake Plummer during his pro day in Phoenix. With no script or fanfare, Payton orchestrated 87 throws, highlighting how much the process has evolved since then.
Payton appreciates the role of private coaches, especially given changes brought about by the 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement, which limited facility access. He supports players working with personal coaches, as long as it happens outside the team's schedule. This approach allows players like Nix to hone their skills with their "swing coach" during the offseason, ensuring they return to the team ready to compete at the highest level.