The Denver Broncos’ offense was abysmal during the 2022 season. They ranked last in points and 21st in yardage as they struggled to move the ball with any efficiency. That was a big reason that head coach Nathaniel Hackett was fired after only one season on the job.

Taking his place is Sean Payton. The Broncos traded the No. 29 overall pick and 2024 second-round pick to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for him and a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Ownership is certainly hoping that Payton can get the team back on track after falling woefully short of expectations last season. His track record speaks for itself as Payton found a ton of success as the head many in the Big Easy.

The most important thing for Payton to find success early in his tenure in Denver is turning Russell Wilson around. He had the worst season of his career in his first with the Broncos after being acquired from the Seattle Seahawks.

He never looked comfortable in Hackett’s system which led to the dreadful performance. Having Payton leading the team will hopefully result in better production. But, the team could also look to further upgrade the weapons around Wilson to help him succeed.

Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton are a solid duo at wide receiver, but the team could use a field-stretching option. One player that could fit the bill is Brandin Cooks. Cooks has been seeking a trade from the Houston Texans since before the trade deadline last season and should be on the move this offseason.

Cooks has a relationship with Payton as he was a first-round pick by the Saints in 2014. He spent the first three seasons of his career in New Orleans before being traded to the New England Patriots. 

While playing under Payon, Cooks had two of the best seasons of his career. In total, he caught 215 passes for 2,861 yards and 20 touchdowns in 42 games. The Broncos would love to add that kind of production to their offense for 2023.