Sean Payton reacts to Broncos’ plan to build new stadium at Burnham Yard
ENGLEWOOD — Sean Payton is feeling his age with the announcement of new Broncos’ stadium plans.
The 61-year-old head coach was the New York Giants offensive coordinator in September 2001 on the visiting sideline of the new Mile High when it first opened 24 years ago. The team is now expected to move into a new stadium — with a “preferred site” at Burnham Yard — starting with the 2031 NFL season.
The proposed Broncos stadium will be privately funded by the Walton-Penner ownership group, have a natural grass playing surface and retractable roof, and include a mixed-use entertainment district across more than 100 acres of land.
“In the day and age when new stadiums are being built, rarely are they staying in the city and privately funded and with the (roof) flexibility,” Payton said after practice Wednesday at Broncos Park. “One thing I kept reading was, man, we’re used to the snow and the elements — and I’m not going to speak for Greg (Penner) and Carrie (Walton Penner) — but those will all exist. … I called them this morning, and I was a little late with it, but just to congratulate them.” Broncos players shared in that enthusiasm.
“It’s exciting,” quarterback Bo Nix said. “Our ownership has a big vision for what this organization is going to be. I think everyone else is just going to follow along with their lead. I know the players are excited. It’s a big step for our team. A big step for our organization. I know there is a lot of work to be put into it.”
Wide receiver Marvin Mims told The Denver Gazette: “I thought it was cool. … It’s going to be a really cool thing just for the city of Denver. Just to keep the Broncos downtown and kind of centralized to the state.”
Former Broncos also shared their excitement on social media.
Wide receiver Ed McCaffrey (1995-2003): “What a time to be part of Broncos Country! Our fans are the absolute best, and the Penners’ vision for a world-class stadium shows they get it. They raise the bar each and every season!! Excited for what’s ahead!”
Linebacker Karl Mecklenburg (1983-94): “I’m so proud to be a Bronco today! The team and the stadium are staying in Denver. The Walton Penner Group never mentioned the possibility of leaving Colorado, but as owners of the franchise, they could have. Their commitment to Bronco Country, to the team, and to building the premier sports franchise in the country is inspiring.”
Defensive back Steve Atwater (1989-98): “This is HUGE! Let’s GOOOO, Broncos!”
Payton reiterated his trust in the Walton Penner ownership group on Wednesday as construction continued on the team’s $176 million practice and training facility that is planned to open in 2026.
“Both of them think outside the box all of the time, and I kind of think that same way,” Payton said. “You appreciate him allowing and trusting you to do your job, and yet, you’re always still proving that: Hey, you’re doing it well. … But there are 20 or 21 other (NFL teams) where the late Vince Lombardi could go there and he may not have the career he had at some of these other organizations. It’s just the truth. I wasn’t looking to find the division with Mahomes and Reid. But what I was looking for was the right ownership group, and I felt like I had that in New Orleans as well as a young coach. You begin to appreciate and realize how much that can really dictate your trajectory and your team’s trajectory. It’s working very well.”
