Sean Payton sending an enormous message to Russell Wilson on first days of OTAs
New Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton made positive to ship a message to his crew — and his quarterback — on the primary days of OTAs.
The Denver Broncos employed Sean Payton to proper the ship after a disastrous season. The Broncos traded three gamers and 5 picks to acquire Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson final March. The consequence? 5 wins, 12 losses, and a few of the worst vibes conceivable round a franchise that hasn’t carried out something important in years.
Payton actually has the résumé to again up his popularity. He gained the Tremendous Bowl with New Orleans in 2010 and was well-known for his sturdy working relationship with Corridor of Fame quarterback Drew Brees. Now, Payton has the chance to mould the offense round Russell Wilson.
Forward of coaching camp, Payton made positive to ship a powerful message to his crew — and his quarterback.
Sean Payton lets Broncos know roles can be earned, not given
Payton is an authoritative voice who’s prepared to problem his gamers and examine egos. He’s already making one factor clear at Broncos OTAs: everybody should earn their spot.
“How they acquired right here at this level is of no significance to us,” Payton told ESPN. The plan is for gamers to show their mettle in camp. Simply because a participant has had success prior to now — or has a superb relationship with the quarterback — doesn’t imply he’s assured a spot on the sector.
Final season was moderately abysmal for Russell Wilson. He tossed 16 touchdowns in 15 video games — the bottom mark of his profession. He additionally set profession highs in interception share and sacks taken, whereas setting a brand new profession low in completion share (60.5).
Wilson notoriously operated with a way of management and self-importance inside the Broncos group final yr. Payton is right here to place an finish to that. It needs to be helpful for all events concerned. The Broncos have to win extra video games, Wilson must get again on observe, and Payton is out to show that he can nonetheless coach on the highest degree.
In concept, Russ is able to magnificent, Tremendous Bowl-winning seasons. He has some mileage on his physique, however the 34-year-old can nonetheless transfer his ft and sling the pigskin. We’ve seen loads of quarterbacks older than Wilson expertise prolonged success within the postseason. The Broncos are hoping Payton can unlock that degree of manufacturing in Wilson and the remainder of his teammates after final season’s dumpster fireplace.