Payton pushes a preseason plan built on proximity and non-division testing, eyeing Cardinals, 49ers, Rams, and Seahawks as near-by opponents for 2026. He aims to minimize travel, preserve player fatigue, and maximize productive August reps, even signaling ongoing talks with Gannon about the Cardinals itinerary.

Sean Payton guided a deliberate preseason plan, resting most starters after a Cardinals game and resetting to a more normal practice cadence. His strategy centers on workload balance and rapid evaluation as Denver edges toward final cuts, shaping how depth is measured and roles are defined before Week 1.

Payton pushed back on the 2027 bench forecast, stressing present-year focus and development over future headlines. His stance frames how the Broncos will navigate Nix 2024 and beyond, setting a disciplined tone for player development and game plan priorities.

Payton sits a few wins shy of a coaching benchmark, endorses a Joker-driven offense, and emphasizes a father-mentor dynamic with Parcells as he shapes a playoff-aspiring Broncos squad.

Sean Payton: sets a no-starters precedent for both clubs, emphasizing depth evaluation and upside, with fantasy implications for Broncos’ ancillary players and depth-chart movement.