Coaches Take Control: Broncos and Texans Shift Play-Calling Duties
The Denver Broncos and the Houston Texans entered the 2026 NFL season with aspirations of reaching the Super Bowl, especially after experiencing painful playoff defeats in the previous season. However, both teams have struggled significantly in the early weeks of this year, prompting a critical decision: their head coaches are reclaiming play-calling duties in hopes of revitalizing their struggling offenses and defenses.
For the Broncos, head coach Sean Payton, known for his offensive acumen, initially delegated play-calling responsibilities to offensive coordinator Davis Webb. This decision has been met with scrutiny as the Broncos' offense has consistently underperformed, ranking 27th in both points and yards per game as they head into Week 5. Payton's recent announcement to take back play-calling duties reflects a desire to address these shortcomings directly. "Everyone is disappointed in the unit itself," Payton remarked, emphasizing the need for improvement. He noted, "We’re 2-2, but we feel like there’s more there," indicating a belief that the offense has untapped potential.
The Broncos' offensive struggles are evident in their inability to generate explosive plays, ranking 27th in explosive play rate and 25th in yards per play. Quarterback Bo Nix has expressed a desire to be more aggressive but also recognizes the importance of making smart decisions. "When it’s open, let’s hit it. But at the same time, I’ve been gotten too many times trying to do too much," he explained, highlighting the delicate balance between aggression and caution that he must navigate.
Meanwhile, the Texans find themselves in an even more precarious position, having started the season 0-4. Historically, only one team has made the playoffs after such a dismal start, which adds pressure to head coach DeMeco Ryans as he takes over play-calling duties from defensive coordinator Matt Burke. Ryans acknowledged the difficulty of this decision but emphasized that it was necessary for the team's success. "I have to do what’s best for this team and make sure I’m leading in that way," he stated.
The Texans' defense, once expected to be a strength, has faltered dramatically, ranking 26th in points allowed and 28th in pass yards allowed entering Week 5. This drop-off is surprising given their previous season's performance, where they ranked among the top defenses in the league. Defensive end Will Anderson noted that Ryans' coaching style is direct and demanding, which could help refocus the unit.
After Further Review
As both teams prepare for Week 5, they face winless opponents: the Broncos will take on the 0-4 Los Angeles Chargers, while the Texans will meet the 0-4 Tennessee Titans. This presents a crucial opportunity for both Payton and Ryans to implement their strategies and potentially turn their seasons around. If neither team can secure a victory against these struggling squads, the issues at hand may extend beyond just play-calling decisions.
The upcoming games are not just about securing a win; they represent a critical juncture for both franchises. For the Broncos, reclaiming play-calling duties could lead to a more cohesive offensive strategy, while the Texans hope that a renewed focus on defense will halt their losing streak. The effectiveness of these changes will be closely scrutinized, as both coaches aim to restore their teams' confidence and performance levels. If the Broncos and Texans fail to capitalize on this opportunity, the implications for their coaching staff and future seasons may be significant. The pressure is on as they look to turn their fortunes around in a league where every game counts.
