Oct 6, 2026, 2:28 PM CUT
Broncos' Davis Webb Receives Sean Payton Amid Slow Start to Play-Calling Career

Imagn
August 9, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Denver Broncos offensive pass game coordinator Davis Webb before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Davis Webb's first season calling plays for the Denver Broncos has not gone as smoothly as expected. After Sean Payton handed him the responsibility, Webb entered the season with plenty of optimism surrounding his promotion. Four games later, Denver's offense has struggled to establish consistency, particularly during the opening halves.
The Broncos have scored just 13 first-half points this season and failed to record a first down on any opening drive. Against San Francisco, Denver managed only 296 total yards and reached the end zone just once. Bo Nix completed 25 of 42 passes for 214 yards, while the offense produced only 14 points in a 24-14 loss.
Those numbers have placed more scrutiny on Webb's play-calling. NFL analysis also noted that Nix attempted only three deep passes against San Francisco, completing none, while the offense leaned heavily on shorter throws. With Denver sitting at 2-2, Webb now faces increasing pressure to find answers.
However, Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer believes Payton will give Webb more time before considering a change. Breer also made clear that Payton will not sacrifice Denver's season simply to help his young coordinator develop.
"Sean is not going to sacrifice a season in the name of developing Davis Webb as a playcaller, but I also think he's gonna give him more than four weeks."
Breer's assessment leaves Webb with some breathing room, but not unlimited time. The Broncos need their offense to improve quickly if they want to remain competitive.
Davis Webb Must Help the Broncos Start Faster
Slow starts have become one of Denver's biggest offensive problems. Davis Webb has acknowledged the need to get the offense moving earlier, while recent analysis has also pointed toward issues with the offensive line and running game.
That means Webb cannot shoulder all the blame. Still, his play-calling must help Denver create more balance and generate explosive plays.
Payton may remain patient, but Webb knows the clock has started. Denver needs results, and the next few weeks could determine how much longer he keeps the play-calling duties.
Written by
Joseph Nithin