Sean Payton Sends Blunt Message to Broncos Special Teams After Sloppy Win Over Texans
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton didn’t mince words after his team’s 18-15 win over the Houston Texans.
As Denver Sports 104.3 noted, despite moving to 7-2, Payton expressed frustration with the Broncos’ special teams performance, a unit once considered one of the league’s best but now under scrutiny after repeated mistakes.
“All of that, without watching on tape, my concern was just the late subs. It was a little bit sloppy in the kicking game,” Payton said postgame. “We’ll get that cleaned up, or we’ll find someone else who can do it.”
Despite a 34-yard field goal from Wil Lutz that won the Broncos the game as time expired, Payton’s comments made clear that execution errors on special teams overshadowed the victory.
Special Teams Struggles
Through nine games, Denver’s special teams have regressed under new coordinator Darren Rizzi, who replaced Ben Kotwica after the 2024 season.
While Lutz has remained reliable, converting over 90% of his field goal attempts, the unit as a whole has been inconsistent.
Sunday’s game in Houston highlighted the issues:
A 51-yard field goal attempt was blocked early, costing Denver an opportunity to seize early momentum.
Then, a muffed punt deep in their own territory late in the first half gifted the Texans three points.
And lastly, a poorly executed kickoff and miscues from long snapper Mitchell Fraboni compounded the sloppiness.
Payton emphasized that the coaching wasn’t to blame, instead calling out players for failing to be ready on time during substitutions and for mental lapses in key moments.
His tone signaled accountability and possible roster adjustments if things don’t get turned around soon.
Payton doubled down on his message, warning that if mistakes continue, he won’t hesitate to make changes: “We’ll get that cleaned up, or we’ll find someone else who can do it.”
Broncos Outlook: 7-2 but Still Far Away
While Denver sits atop the AFC West standings at 7-2, the record doesn’t tell the full story.
Several wins have come down to late-game heroics or critical defensive stands rather than complete performances.
They’ve played sloppy football in many close wins against bad teams this season, including close calls over the Titans, Giants and Jets.
The Broncos’ special teams woes have surfaced multiple times this season, including a game where a late special teams penalty cost them a win against the Colts.
Payton’s comments after the game suggest that patience is wearing thin.
The Broncos face the Raiders on Thursday night, followed by a mini-bye before their first matchup with the Chiefs.
That short stretch could serve as a critical evaluation period for personnel changes or roster moves.
Adding to the complications, Pro Bowl returner Marvin Mims Jr. missed Sunday’s game due to a concussion, leaving the unit without one of its most dynamic playmakers.
His absence was felt, but Payton made clear that mental errors, not injuries, were the root of his concern.
“It was a little sloppy,” Payton reiterated. “That’s not who we are and it won’t continue.”
BREAKING: Ravens Legend Ed Reed Reportedly Battling Cancer — The NFL World Rallies Behind a True Warrior...
The NFL world was shaken today as multiple reports confirmed that Ed Reed, the Baltimore Ravens legend and one of the greatest safeties in NFL history, is battling cancer.
The news broke early this morning through family representatives and team sources close to Reed’s household — sparking an outpouring of emotion, support, and reflection across the sports world.
Reed, 46, is widely regarded as one of the most influential defensive players in football history. His intelligence, ball-hawking ability, and leadership helped define the Baltimore Ravens’ defense as one of the most feared units in the NFL. Reed’s legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, securing his place among the all-time greats.
And now, the same resilience that defined his career is being called upon once again — not on the field, but in the fight of his life.
A Hero Facing a New Battle
According to early reports from The Baltimore Sun and NFL Network, Reed was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer several weeks ago and has begun undergoing treatment at a medical facility in the Baltimore area.
While the family has not yet disclosed the specific type or stage of his illness, those close to Reed describe him as being “optimistic, focused, and fighting with the same intensity he once brought to the field.”
“He’s a fighter,” said a family friend. “Ed’s always been a warrior — that’s who he is. This is just another opponent, and he’s already game-planning how to beat it.”
The Baltimore Ravens organization released an official statement shortly after the news broke, expressing full support for their legendary safety and Super Bowl champion:
“Ed Reed is and always will be the heart of this franchise. His leadership, football IQ, and impact on the game of football have inspired generations of players and fans alike. The entire Ravens family stands with him and his loved ones during this challenging time.”
A Legacy Built on Intelligence and Dominance
Ed Reed’s journey is nothing short of legendary.
Born in St. Rose, Louisiana, Reed rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most dominant safeties in NFL history. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2002, Reed immediately made an impact with his ability to read offenses, intercept passes, and create turnovers. Over his 12-season career, Reed amassed 64 interceptions and was a key figure in the Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII victory.
Known for his remarkable football intelligence and ability to make game-changing plays, Reed helped the Ravens develop one of the most formidable defenses of the 2000s. His leadership on and off the field earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.
“Without Ed, we don’t win that Super Bowl,” said Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. “He was the heartbeat of our defense and a leader in every sense of the word. He’s a legend.”
Now, the same NFL that once watched him dominate is standing behind him in unison.
The NFL Reacts — “We’re All with You, Ed.”
As the news spread, players, coaches, and fans across the NFL took to social media to send prayers, love, and encouragement to the Ravens legend.
Ray Lewis wrote on Twitter:
“Ed Reed is one of the greatest to ever play the game. His passion, his heart, his commitment to winning — that’s who he is. I’m praying for you, brother. We’re all with you.”
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh added:
“Ed Reed is one of the greatest leaders we’ve ever had in this organization. His impact on this franchise is immeasurable, and we’re with him through this fight.”
Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell weighed in, saying:
“Ed Reed’s contributions to the game of football are immeasurable. His leadership, intellect, and ability to inspire will forever be a part of the NFL’s history. We wish him strength in his fight and thank him for all he’s done for the game.”
