Broncos HC Sean Payton delivers emotional message to Bo Nix and Co. after unsuccessful Russell Wilson stint

Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton shared a poignant message about team legacy to Bo Nix and Co. in their playoff push. His words carry special weight after replacing Russell Wilson, who was benched last fall, with rookie Nix.

Payton's moves included absorbing a record $53 million dead cap hit to release Wilson. The decision paid off as the Broncos chase their first playoff appearance since 2016 with a 9-7 record under Nix's leadership.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Payton reflected on the significance of team photos while distributing this year's edition to his players.

"I asked PK (Paul kelly), I said, 'Paul, my first year of playing, I was eight years old. Tell me how many team photos I'm in,'" Payton said. "So he comes back. 'This is your 52nd.' And I told these guys today, 'Make sure this is one. We know where this photo is.' It's been a tight-knit team and we've hit adversity like every team during the stretch of the season."

The comparison between Wilson's final Broncos season and Nix's rookie campaign tells a compelling story. Through 15 games as a starter, Nix has thrown for 3,235 yards with 22 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Wilson posted 3,070 yards, 26 TDs and eight interceptions before his benching. The stark difference appears in protection — Nix has taken just 22 sacks compared to Wilson's 45.

Bo Nix one victory away from playoffs

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Bo Nix's development mirrors Russell Wilson's rookie season in 2012. Through 15 games that year, Wilson recorded 2,868 passing yards and 28 TDs. Nix has already surpassed those passing numbers with 3,235 yards and 27 TDs in the first 15 games.

The rookie quarterback showcased his potential in Week 10's narrow 16-14 loss to Kansas City.

"I feel like every team practices their four-minute offense," Nix said to reporters after the game. "When we thought it was in our hands, it wasn't." Despite the heartbreak, he delivered 215 yards and two scores.

Denver now stands one victory away from the playoffs. Payton's emotional investment in preserving this season's memories speaks to a larger transformation. His team has evolved from the uncertainty of Wilson's tenure into a cohesive unit built around Nix's promising future.

Sunday's rematch against Kansas City offers a chance for redemption and a playoff berth — achievements that would make this team photo truly unforgettable.