Broncos Considering Offensive Coordinator Davis Webb as Play-Caller

Head coach Sean Payton may relinquish play-calling duties to rising OC Webb for 2026 season

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Denver Broncos are reportedly considering a major offensive change for the 2026 season, with head coach Sean Payton potentially handing over play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Davis Webb. This move could provide a much-needed boost to the Broncos' offense, which struggled with inconsistency in 2025 despite a strong defense.

Why it matters

Payton has been the Broncos' play-caller since taking over as head coach, but the team's offense has not lived up to expectations. Handing the reins to the younger and highly-touted Webb could inject new life into the unit and help the Broncos return to the playoffs after a disappointing end to the 2025 season.

The details

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, several league sources believe Payton will eventually relinquish play-calling duties to Webb, who was a hot commodity on the coaching market this offseason. Webb, who took over as offensive coordinator from Joe Lombardi, turned down multiple head coaching opportunities, but could be poached for a top job next year if he continues to impress as the Broncos' play-caller.

  • The Broncos are considering the change for the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who has been the team's play-caller since taking over the role.

Davis Webb

The Broncos' offensive coordinator, who is a rising young coach and was a hot commodity on the head coaching market this offseason.

Bo Nix

The Broncos' starting quarterback, who suffered an injury in the 2025 AFC Divisional round that derailed the team's playoff run.

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What they’re saying

“I've talked to several people in the league who believe that coach Sean Payton will eventually relinquish playcalling to Webb, a fast riser who had multiple head coaching interviews this cycle.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Broncos will need to decide on the play-calling duties for the 2026 season in the coming months, as Webb could be poached for a head coaching job next offseason if he continues to impress.

The takeaway

This potential change in play-calling duties could be a pivotal moment for the Broncos' offense, as they look to get back on track and make a deep playoff run in 2026 with a healthy Bo Nix and a revamped offensive approach under the guidance of rising star Davis Webb.