The Denver Broncos ended up retaining some of the attention focused on the NFL Combine at the moment after a historic announcement: Sean Payton decided to give up calling offensive plays, passing that responsibility to offensive coordinator Davis Webb for the 2026 season.
NFL World Reacts To Sean Payton’s Big Announcement At The Denver Broncos
Payton surprised everyone when he made this announcement during a press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine (via Mike Klis), confirming that Webb will take over play-calling duties for the Broncos. Although there had been much discussion about Payton stepping down from this role, fans had many doubts about whether it would actually happen.
This change represents one of the most significant developments expected this offseason, even though the most recent indications pointed in this direction. In addition, the local press had already indicated that Payton tried to recruit Joe Brady (Buffalo Bills) with the promise that he could be the main play caller.
Davis Webb is calling the offensive plays, Sean Payton confirmed. pic.twitter.com/8CcVCWIisa
— MikeKlis9NEWS (@mikeklis9news) February 24, 2026
With Webb being scouted by other teams for high-level positions, the Broncos secured his stay by offering him not only a promotion but also effective control of the offense. Even so, there was a strong reaction from the NFL World to the decision announced by the head coach this week.
Chase Daniel (former New Orleans Saints quarterback) disagreed with the decision and expressed his discomfort on social media: “I can’t fathom Sean Payton ever giving up play calling knowing how he operates… And that should tell you everything you need to know about Davis Webb,” casting doubt on the quality of the offensive coordinator.
I can’t fathom Sean Payton ever giving up play calling knowing how he operates…
And that should tell you everything you need to know about Davis Webb https://t.co/HnWk1UZ6H3
— Chase Daniel (@ChaseDaniel) February 24, 2026
Meanwhile, Anthony DiBona highlighted the unprecedented aspect of the new NFL season with Sean Mannion, Declan Doyle, and Davis Webb calling plays in 2026.
The same surprise was shared by Max Toscano, who emphasized Payton’s quality during the years he performed that role.
This is interesting! It’s going to be fascinating to watch Sean Mannion, Declan Doyle and now Davis Webb call plays in 2026. https://t.co/Vfz1drBlVd
— Anthony DiBona (@DiBonaNFL) February 24, 2026
WOAH Sean Payton gave up play-calling???
End of an era honestly he’s one of the best to ever do it https://t.co/pgY3t8H0Yo
— Max Toscano (@maxtoscano1) February 24, 2026
Ryan Dunleavy pointed out that this move is a “passing of the torch” from Payton to a trusted professional, despite the doubts that will certainly be raised since the start of the preseason.
2027 head coach Davis Webb will call plays for Broncos in 2026
Big move of trust from Sean Payton
Webb played QB for Giants in 2022! https://t.co/u2eZi7Covz
— Ryan Dunleavy (@rydunleavy) February 24, 2026
Finally, it is worth remembering that Webb was interviewed for three HC positions and also received offers to continue in the OC role at other franchises, but ultimately decided to stay in Denver for another season.
