Broncos Struggle with Discipline, Record 1-3 Under Sean Payton

The Denver Broncos are facing significant challenges under head coach Sean Payton, as their discipline and performance issues have become increasingly evident. In Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season, the Broncos were penalized 10 times for 90 yards in a critical loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, highlighting a broader trend of undisciplined play with 24 penalties for 218 yards through three games. Former Broncos player Bennie Fowler criticized Payton's $20 million salary, questioning whether the coach is justifying his pay given the team's repeated close losses and lack of progress, with the Broncos holding a 1-2 record and sitting third in the AFC West. Despite some offensive flashes, such as quarterback Bo Nix's potential, inconsistent execution and missed opportunities have plagued the team, including multiple squandered chances to extend leads and costly errors in key moments. Analysts note that Payton's Broncos resemble the struggles seen under previous coach Vic Fangio, especially in September, putting Payton's future under scrutiny as the team seeks a signature win to prove its competitiveness. Overall, the Broncos' performance issues, coaching doubts, and penalty woes underscore a season that has yet to gain traction and demands urgent correction.