As Sean Payton embarks on his second season as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, one name keeps surfacing in his discussions about quarterbacks: Drew Brees. Payton, who found immense success with Brees during their tenure with the New Orleans Saints, often draws comparisons between his former quarterback and the new promising talent he's now grooming - Bo Nix.
A Season of Reassessment
The transition from leading the Saints with Brees to forging a path with the Broncos has not been without its challenges. Payton's first year in Denver wasn't exactly smooth sailing, with one notable issue being the frequency with which his quarterback, Russell Wilson, ended up on the ground. Wilson was sacked an average of nearly 44 times per season during his initial 12-year career span, a figure that starkly contrasts with Brees' career numbers. Brees, renowned for his quick release and pocket awareness, was sacked more than 30 times in a single season only twice over his illustrious 20-year career and averaged 22 sacks per season during his 19 years as a starter.
"I used to say this all the time: The sack numbers are a reflection more on the quarterback than the offensive line," Payton said. "Brees was one of those guys, he was a tough sack. The ball came out, and I think Bo has traits like that."
The Bo Nix Factor
Bo Nix, the 12th overall pick in April's draft, is now under Payton’s tutelage. Nix has a reputation for having excellent pocket sense and an ability to avoid sacks, which resonates with Payton's strategic preferences. Having played 61 college games, Nix brings a level of maturity and experience that is unusual for rookies entering the professional arena.
"You see pretty good pocket sense. Doesn't take a lot of sacks. I think when he knows when the play's over, time to go, and then, I think he can make plays when he's going," Payton remarked about Nix.
Drawing Parallels
The comparisons between Nix and Brees are not just about their ability to avoid sacks; it extends to their mental readiness and quick decision-making skills as well. "All right, we're looking for similarities. I would say mentally, [Nix] wants to know as much and as fast as he can. I think there's maybe a maturity level because, again, [Nix] played 61 games [in college] and when [the Saints] got Drew, it was off of his rookie contract and coming off an injury," Payton noted.
Bringing up Brees in conversations about Nix is high praise indeed, considering Brees is anticipated to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026. Payton's bullishness on Nix suggests that he sees elements in the young quarterback that could translate into long-term success.
Looking Ahead
As Payton navigates his second season with the Broncos, his approach signals a clear strategy: fortify the team's offensive efficiency by minimizing sacks and enhancing quick decision-making at the quarterback position. Nix's quick release and ability to read plays swiftly could provide him an edge over veteran Jarrett Stidham, currently competing for the starting job.
There is a sense of moving forward and rebuilding that defines Payton's current mission with the Broncos. Parting ways with Wilson, despite the significant financial implications, indicates Payton's commitment to aligning the team's play style with his vision of success. In many ways, the Broncos are on the cusp of a new era, one that Payton hopes will replicate the success he once enjoyed with Brees in New Orleans.
As the new season unfolds, the football community will be watching closely to see if Bo Nix can indeed live up to the high expectations set by his coach. Should Nix demonstrate the qualities Payton believes he possesses, the Denver Broncos might just find themselves with a quarterback capable of leading them into a promissory future. For now, the team's hopes rest on this potential, and Payton's faith in a young quarterback with echoes of greatness.