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Pairing NFL teams with the best head coaching candidates in 2023

By Michael Johnson

Jan 25, 2022; Metairie, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton speaks during a press conference at Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2022; Metairie, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton speaks during a press conference at Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports /
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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – OCTOBER 25: Sean Payton former head coach of the New Orleans Saints looks on during the third quarter of an NBA game between the Dallas Mavericks and the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on October 25, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

1. Denver Broncos and Sean Payton

Are you ready for a Super Bowl run, Broncos fans? Because with Sean Payton at the helm, that dream could become a reality! The Broncos and former New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton seem like the perfect match. Payton wants full control, and the Broncos’ new owners need a guy in the seat who knows how to galvanize a franchise. Put the two together and watch the magic happen. It will cost the franchise a few picks, but it will be worth it.

For starters, Payton could save Russell Wilson’s career. The Broncos offense is starving for life. The former Saints head coach’s philosophy and experience working with a quarterback like Drew Brees align perfectly with the Broncos’ current quarterback situation. There was a vast disconnect between Wilson and Hackett. With the Seahawks, Pete Carol was in full control; he was the system as evidenced by the success of the Seahawks with Geno Smith at the helm.

Naturally, Payton’s track record of success, having led the Saints to a Super Bowl victory in 2009 and consistently having his teams in contention for playoff spots. Something Hackett didn’t have. Wilson would have no other (realistic) choice, but to humble himself and defer to a coach who’s had success.

Sean Payton spent over a decade helping Drew Brees become one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. Wilson, on the other hand, has been compared to Brees for his accuracy, in-pocket athleticism, and ability to make quick decisions. Payton’s experience working with Brees would give him the knowledge and understanding to help Wilson reach his full potential in Denver.

Payton’s philosophy is a high-powered, pass-heavy offense that emphasizes quick strikes and getting the ball into the hands of his playmakers. This style of offense would fit perfectly for Wilson and the weapons the Broncos have on their roster. With playmakers like Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, and Javonte Williams, Payton would have the pieces in place to create a run-based yet dynamic offense.

It’s also worth mentioning the Broncos’ defense as it’s a dominant unit, something Payton had during the latter years of his tenure with the Saints. The Broncos better back up the money truck if they want to get Payton. Another option is Dan Quinn who has history with Russell Wilson during their Super Bowl run with the Seahawks.

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