The Denver Broncos' search for a new offensive coordinator took a significant internal turn on February 1, as head coach Sean Payton conducted a formal interview with quarterbacks coach Davis Webb for the vacant position. This move, reported by multiple league sources, strongly indicates Payton is seriously considering delegating primary play-calling responsibilities for the first time since his arrival in Denver.
Webb, 31, just completed his second season as the Broncos' quarterbacks coach after joining Payton's initial staff in 2024. His rapid rise within the coaching ranks has been noted, particularly his work with second-year quarterback Bo Nix during the 2025 season. Under Webb's tutelage, Nix started all 17 regular-season games, throwing for 3,850 yards with 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, leading the Broncos to a 12-5 record and the AFC's top seed before his season-ending ankle injury in the Divisional Round.
The offensive coordinator position became open after the conclusion of the 2025 season. Payton, who has historically called plays throughout his storied head coaching career, is now openly evaluating a change in structure. "We're going to look at everything," Payton stated in his end-of-season press conference. "The goal is to put our players in the best position to succeed, and that includes constantly evaluating how we operate as a staff."
Interviewing Webb represents the first known candidate in what is expected to be a process that may include external options. However, promoting from within offers continuity for an offense that found its identity in 2025. The Broncos' offense, while inconsistent at times, finished the regular season ranked 12th in total yards and 10th in scoring. A key component of that success was the development of the run game and play-action pass scheme built around Nix's skillset—areas where Webb had direct input.
Webb's potential promotion would align with a growing NFL trend of younger, offensive-minded coaches ascending quickly to coordinator roles. His playing career as a quarterback, which included stints with the New York Giants and Buffalo Bills from 2017 to 2022, provides him with a relatable perspective for Denver's quarterbacks room. Furthermore, his existing relationship with Nix is considered a major asset, especially as the franchise quarterback embarks on a critical 12-week rehabilitation from ankle surgery with the aim of returning for OTAs in May.
The decision carries weight for the 2026 season. If Webb is hired and assumes play-calling duties, it would allow Payton to take a more holistic game management role, focusing on in-game strategy, clock management, and overseeing the entire team. This model is one Payton utilized successfully earlier in his career with the New Orleans Saints.
This internal interview also comes alongside other staff news. The likelihood of defensive coordinator Vance Joseph returning for the 2026 season increased significantly on February 1, as the latest wave of NFL coaching hires did not include Joseph for any head coaching vacancies. Stability on the defensive side could make an offensive coordinator transition smoother.
The Broncos' offseason is in full swing, with the front office also preparing for free agency and the NFL Draft, where they hold the 30th overall pick. Securing their offensive leadership is a pivotal first step in building upon a 2025 campaign that ended one game short of the Super Bowl. A decision on the coordinator position is expected in the coming weeks as the team prepares for the Scouting Combine and the start of the new league year.