In his coaching career, Sean Payton has molded Drew Brees into a Super Bowl champion and one of the NFL’s best passers. After retiring, Payton returned to the league in 2023 and is now coaching rookie Bo Nix with the Denver Broncos. As the Broncos prepare to face the New Orleans Saints, a comparison of both quarterbacks’ first six games under Payton shows significant differences in performance and experience level.

Through the numbers

• Bo Nix: 61.1% completion rate, 1,082 passing yards, 5 passing TDs, 5 INTs in first six games (2024).
• Drew Brees: 66.7% completion rate, 1,509 passing yards, 8 passing TDs, 4 INTs in first six games (2006).

Yes but

It’s important to note that Nix is ​​a rookie in his first season, while Brees was already an established player in his sixth season. This difference in experience impacts their respective performances under Payton and makes direct comparisons difficult.

state of affairs

• Bo Nix’s Broncos are currently 3-3 this season, showing inconsistent performance.
• Drew Brees had a strong start to his career under Payton, leading the Saints to a 5-1 record in his first six games.

What’s next?

As the season progresses, Nix’s development will be critical to the Broncos’ success. Continually improving and adapting to Payton’s system will determine whether he can establish himself as a franchise quarterback.

Conclusion

While Nix has potential, his rookie status and developmental trajectory differ significantly from Brees’ established career. The Broncos and their fans remain hopeful that Nix can become a leader under Payton’s leadership, but patience and time will be of the essence.