Sean Payton: Drawing Parallels between Drew Brees and Bo Nix in Denver
As Sean Payton embarks on his second season as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, comparisons are already being drawn between quarterbacks past and present. Payton's tenure with the New Orleans Saints alongside Drew Brees was marked by extraordinary success, making any new quarterback under his command subject to high expectations. One name that has been frequently mentioned in the same breath as Brees is Bo Nix, the 12th overall pick in April's NFL Draft.
"All right, we're looking for similarities," Payton said regarding comparisons between Brees and Nix. "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."
Nix's extensive college career, encompassing 61 games, seems to impress Payton, who values experience and mental acuity in his quarterbacks. The comparison is not merely based on statistics or achievements but also on the demeanor and maturity both players exhibit on and off the field.
Besides the mental toughness, Payton also appreciates Nix's pocket presence and decision-making abilities. "You see pretty good pocket sense. Doesn't take a lot of sacks. I think he knows when the play's over, time to go, and then, I think he can make plays when he's going," Payton commented.
Understanding the Sack Stats
One of the most telling statistics about a quarterback's acumen is their sack rate. Russell Wilson, another quarterback under Payton's guidance, experienced an average of nearly 44 sacks per season during his initial 12-year career. In contrast, Drew Brees was sacked more than 30 times in a single season only twice over his 20-year career, averaging just 22 sacks per season during his 19 years as a starter. These numbers speak volumes about the quick decision-making and pocket awareness that Brees possessed and the traits Payton is likely looking for in Nix.
"I used to say this all the time: The sack numbers are a reflection more on the quarterback than the offensive line," Payton noted. "Brees was one of those guys, he was a tough sack. The ball came out, and I think Bo has traits like that."
The First Year Woes
Payton's inaugural year with the Denver Broncos was anything but smooth. It was a challenging season that tested the new head coach's resilience and adaptability. The integration of his system, coupled with the complexities of a new roster, posed immediate hurdles. Yet, Payton remains undeterred, leaning on his extensive experience and the potential he sees in both his seasoned and emerging quarterbacks.
As the second season looms, the battle for the starting job in Denver is heating up. Jarrett Stidham is competing fiercely, and it becomes another subplot under Payton's tenure that will undoubtedly capture the interest of Broncos fans and NFL watchers alike. Seeing how the competition unfolds and who ultimately takes the helm will be pivotal in shaping Denver's future.
Looking Ahead for Denver
Payton's history with Brees sets a high benchmark, but his insights suggest that he sees something special in Nix. The expectations in Denver are high, and the development of a new quarterback under the coach who helped Brees blossom into a future Hall of Famer is an exciting narrative for the franchise.
As Payton himself said, "Mentally, [Nix] wants to know as much and as fast as he can." Perhaps it is this hunger for knowledge and growth, paired with the lessons from last season's challenges, that will propel the Broncos to new heights. With Drew Brees anticipated to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026, the comparisons may continue to arise, but both Payton and Nix are focused on writing a new chapter for Denver.