A Historic First Since 2014: Broncos Break the Curse With Returning QB/Coach Duo

In a league built on change, chaos, and constant rebuilds, the Denver Broncos have finally broken the cycle. For the first time since 2014, the franchise is bringing back the same starting quarterback-head coach duo for a second season — a milestone that speaks volumes about newfound trust and long-awaited stability in the Mile High City.

That pair? Quarterback Bo Nix and Head Coach Sean Payton — a combo few predicted would click so quickly.

Since the departure of Peyton Manning and Gary Kubiak, Denver has cycled through a dizzying list of QBs and head coaches, never able to recreate the magic that brought them a Super Bowl 50 title. From Trevor Siemian to Paxton Lynch, Drew Lock, Teddy Bridgewater, and Russell Wilson — the quarterback carousel spun out of control. On the sidelines, Vance Joseph, Vic Fangio, and Nathaniel Hackett all came and went, each unable to steady the ship.

But now, for the first time in over a decade, the Broncos are running it back with the same leadership under center and on the sideline.

What changed?

The answer starts with Bo Nix — the rookie turned rising star who quickly won over the locker room with his poise, accuracy, and command of the offense. Drafted amid skepticism, Nix exceeded expectations in his first season, showing signs of being the long-term answer Denver has been desperately seeking.

Sean Payton, the Super Bowl-winning coach with the Saints, clearly saw something special. After years of failed experiments, Payton’s system appears to be the perfect fit for Nix’s style — and the front office has taken notice.

The decision to keep this duo intact could prove to be a turning point for the franchise. Continuity at the most critical positions breeds success — just ask the Chiefs, Bills, or 49ers. And for Broncos fans, it's a reason to hope again.

This isn’t just a headline — it’s a culture shift. Denver is done playing musical chairs with quarterbacks and coaches. They're investing in consistency — and that could finally bring back the winning ways.