Sean Payton has a plan to get more out of Bo Nix, and it doesn’t involve asking the Denver Broncos quarterback to throw caution to the wind.
The Broncos head coach laid out his thinking Tuesday as the third-year passer works through a conservative start to 2026. Denver sits at 3-2 after Sunday’s 23-17 road win over the Los Angeles Chargers, with the Seattle Seahawks coming to town Thursday.
DNVR Sports’ Zac Stevens took to X to share Payton’s comments on the throws the offense wants to create for Nix.
“Part of what we're trying to do is find him these throws where … he's going to have to make a play that that may be covered pretty well, but he he scrambles and finds a throw. We're always trying to find those those plays that that are clean, that kind of unfold versus the coverage you want.”
Sean Payton on his advice to Bo Nix on taking risks pic.twitter.com/kT26IYCfFq
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevens) October 13, 2026
The numbers show why the Broncos want more from their passing game. Through five games, Nix has completed 97 of 162 passes for 942 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions. That works out to a 59.9% completion rate, 5.8 yards per attempt and an 80.8 passer rating.
He has run for just 35 yards on 18 carries.
Payton took back play-calling duties in Week 5 and urged Nix to play more aggressively after the Chargers win. On Monday, he stressed the difference between throws worth the risk and moments that call for a smarter decision.
Article Continues BelowThe coach has also pointed to protection and footwork as keys to getting the former Oregon standout comfortable. On Tuesday, he zeroed in on favorable coverage looks and Nix’s ability to make something happen when a play breaks down.
Payton emphasized balancing aggressive throws with smart decisions, pointing to favorable coverage looks and opportunities his quarterback can create outside the pocket.
Nix will face the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks on Thursday at Empower Field at Mile High.