Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton said Monday that the team is not considering a quarterback change, even as the offense struggles badly. Asked whether he had considered replacing Bo Nix given the team's 4-2 start, Payton said, "No," and argued that Nix's play will improve as a byproduct of fixes elsewhere, including the offensive line and a more balanced running game.
The offense ranks 26th in scoring and 31st in third-down conversions. Last Thursday's overtime win over the Seattle Seahawks was the third game this season in which Denver scored 17 or fewer points. In its past two games combined, the Broncos converted just 3-of-26 on third down. After taking a 14-3 lead over Seattle, they failed to run more than five plays or gain more than 23 yards on any of their last 10 possessions.
Nix has drawn heavy criticism, ranking near the bottom of most major categories, including 31st in QBR (38.2) and 32nd in yards per attempt (5.6). He threw for 107 yards against Seattle and 123 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Nix said after the Seattle game that the team is capable of more but that he doesn't know "where the disconnect is right now." The Broncos also rank near the bottom in rushing, passing yardage and plays of 20 or more yards.
Payton said handling frustration the right way is essential for everyone, including himself and Nix. He declined to engage with national criticism, including comments from Ryan Fitzpatrick, saying the team's focus is on preparing to play the Arizona Cardinals.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing