Sean Payton apologizes for ‘dumb’ play call vs. Cardinals

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton admitted after Sunday's 30-16 victory over the Arizona Cardinals that one of his play calls was "dumb." Payton questioned why no one had inquired about the decision following the game. He emphasized that the play was "awful" and expressed regret, saying, "That would be one of the first calls!

I’m gonna answer, [pretending] everyone asked the question: It was awful! All right, I’m sorry!" Payton cited an incident from 2008, when a similar reverse play resulted in a fumble for Tampa Bay. He acknowledged that he should have asked the question himself and reiterated his apology for the foolish play call. The play occurred late in the fourth quarter when quarterback Bo Nix attempted a reverse pass to wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, who dropped the ball, recovered it, and then held his chest.

Waddle initially walked off the field under his own power, was checked in the medical tent, and then returned to the locker room, missing the remainder of the game. Waddle's availability for the upcoming Week 8 game against the Kansas City Chiefs will be closely monitored. Broncos fans are hoping Payton removes the problematic play call from his playbook and memory.