Sean Payton Fires Back at Geoff Schwartz Over Bo Nix Criticism

Sean Payton has defended Bo Nix after former NFL offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz questioned whether the Denver Broncos quarterback can take another step forward during the 2026 NFL season.

Schwartz made his comments during an appearance on FS1’s First Things First, where he was asked whether Nix would progress or regress in his third NFL season. The former Kansas City Chiefs guard suggested that Nix may already have established his style of play and could struggle to become a more aggressive downfield passer.

“I do think he just is what he is at this point. He looks like the same quarterback he was in college. … He’s consistent. He’s not gonna make mistakes. But he’s not gonna push the ball down the field all that often,” Schwartz said.

Sean Payton responds to Geoff Schwartz

Payton did not take long to respond to the criticism. The Broncos head coach took to social media the following day and appeared to question whether Schwartz fully understood the amount of work Nix puts into developing his game.

Payton wrote: “Always easy to tell who works at it and who doesn’t.”

The brief response quickly drew attention because it came directly after Schwartz’s assessment of Nix. Payton has consistently backed his young quarterback since taking over as Denver’s head coach, and his latest comment made his confidence in Nix clear.

Bo Nix’s numbers support Sean Payton’s argument

While Schwartz questioned Nix’s willingness to attack defenses down the field, some of the quarterback’s numbers provide a different perspective.

According to Next Gen Stats, Nix has recorded 19 touchdown passes on throws covering at least 20 air yards since entering the NFL in 2024. That mark leads all quarterbacks during that span.

The statistic is particularly notable because it challenges the idea that Nix rarely attempts or succeeds on deep passes. Although his playing style has included an emphasis on decision-making and avoiding costly mistakes, he has also demonstrated the ability to create explosive plays through the air.

Broncos add Jaylen Waddle to explosive offense

Denver has also made a major move to strengthen Nix’s supporting cast ahead of the 2026 season by acquiring wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.

Waddle joins an offensive group that already features Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims Jr. and tight end Evan Engram. The additional speed and playmaking ability could give Nix even more opportunities to attack opposing defenses vertically.

The Broncos will hope the upgraded group can help their young quarterback continue developing while giving Sean Payton more options within his offensive system.

Nix continues to recover from foot injury

Nix’s preparation for the 2026 season has also been affected by a foot injury. Despite the setback, expectations surrounding the quarterback remain high as he enters another season under Payton.

The Broncos believe Nix can continue improving as he gains experience in the offense. His ability to protect the football, make efficient decisions and capitalize on opportunities downfield will be important factors in determining how far Denver can go this season.

Sean Payton jokes about NFL players returning to college

Payton was also asked about another unusual development around the NFL: players reportedly considering a return to college football after participating in NFL practices.

The discussion began after Cleveland waived tight end Dae’Quan Wright, who is expected to reunite with former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin at LSU. Two defensive backs who previously practiced under Payton in Denver, Paul Manning and Blake Cotton, have also reportedly been linked with moves back to college football.

Payton joked about the situation during his media availability.

“Well, I asked, but I can’t move well enough I feel like I’m in the dark with it all, and I don’t have time to read up on it, but certainly it’s unusual, right?” he said.

Broncos prepare for final preseason game

The Broncos are set to conclude their preseason against the Minnesota Vikings on Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. MT.

With the regular season approaching, attention will increasingly turn toward Nix and whether he can build on his first two NFL seasons. Payton’s public defense suggests the Broncos remain confident that their quarterback has more development ahead of him.

For Denver, the combination of Nix’s continued development, Payton’s offensive system and the addition of Waddle could make the 2026 season an important test of the franchise’s long-term plans at quarterback.