Sean Payton: Earning Big, Chasing Another Ring

Sean Payton, in his second decade as an NFL head coach, commands a significant salary leading the Denver Broncos. As of the start of the 2025 season, his reported $18 million annual earnings place him as the league's second-highest-paid coach, only behind Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs. Payton's performance has justified his contract, guiding the Broncos to the playoffs as a top seed this season. The team reached the AFC Championship game last season, falling short against the Patriots.

This playoff success positions the Broncos to contend for their fourth Super Bowl championship in franchise history, and their first since 2015. For Payton, the stakes are also personal, as he aims to secure his second Vince Lombardi Trophy. His previous championship came in 2009 when he led the New Orleans Saints to victory in Super Bowl XLIV. After a stint with the Saints, Payton briefly retired before returning to coach the Broncos on a five-year deal starting in 2023, running through the 2027 season.