Mark Schlereth envisions Broncos HC Sean Payton as “The Grinch” and steal AFC West crown from Chiefs on Christmas

Sean Payton took over as the coach of the Denver Broncos in 2023. Last season, he helped them finish third in the AFC West while qualifying for the playoffs, where they lost to the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card round. It was also the Broncos' first season under new starting quarterback Bo Nix.

On the Stinkin' Truth podcast, retired Broncos star Mark Schlereth shared his feelings about the future of the franchise. The three-time Super Bowl winner discussed the game against division rivals Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day.

Schlereth believes Sean Payton and Co. could emerge victorious this season against the Chiefs. He highlighted how the Broncos addressed their problem points on the roster this offseason, making them a strong contender to finish first in the AFC West.

"It would not surprise me (if the Broncos win)," Schlereth said. "As a matter of fact, I'm expecting it. ... You've addressed the running game; you've addressed the tight end; you've got Evan Engram off free agency, like you've addressed your defense.

Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!

"I fully expect Broncos on Christmas Night, to just absolutely ruin the hopes and dreams of Kansas City Chiefs fans. I would lvoe to see Sean Patyon dress up as the Grinch, and come out on the sideline in a Grinch outfit ... and steal the hopes and dreams of the Christmas little children there in Kansas City.

Expand Tweet

In the 2024 campaign, Sean Payton and Co. took on the Chiefs twice in the regular season. They lost the first game, 16-14, at Arrowhead Stadium in November 2024.

In Week 18, the Broncos exacted revenge on the Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High, with a 38-0 whitewash victory.

Sean Payton was taken back after Shedeur Sanders' draft fall

Coach Prime's son, Shedeur Sanders, was a projected top-three pick pre-draft. However, Shedeur was passed by teams on the first two days before going to the Browns with the 144th overall pick.

In a press conference after Day 2, Sean Payton shared his thoughts on Shedeur's draft snub.

"I think we're all surprised, and yet, the talent, holy cow!," Payton said. "There will be a chip on his shoulder and beware, because this guy is going to play in this league. I think it's hard for any of us to explain what other people are looking for. We focus on what we're looking for. I think it's surprising."

Expand Tweet

The Broncos drafted cornerback Jahdae Brown with the 20th overall pick in the first round. They also acquired RB R.J. Harvey (No. 60), WR Pat Byrant (No. 74), DE Sai'vion Jones (No. 101), OLB Que Robinson (No. 134), Punter Jeremy Crawshaw (No. 216) and TE Caleb Lohner (No. 241).

About the author

Priyam is a College Sports content executive at Sportskeeda with a master's in Advertising and Marketing Management and over two years of experience as a writer. When it comes to reporting, Priyam believes doing a technical deep dive is one of his biggest strengths and he loves to dissect plays on the field and factor out the strengths/weaknesses of players.

A fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, Priyam sees Nick Saban as the greatest coach of all time. He is also rooting for Alabama quarterback Jalen Milore after following his progress over the years. The Michigan Wolverines football team is another of his favorite programs and it will be interesting to see how both these teams perform in new coaching eras.

When he’s not reporting, Priyam is usually at the gym or indulging in music. He has been a guitarist and a drummer for the past 17 years and finds his time of peace when playing music.

Know More

Denver Broncos Fans! Check out the latest Denver Broncos Schedule and dive into the Broncos Depth Chart for NFL Season 2024-25.

Edited by Bhargav