Broncos safety Kareem Jackson has played for four different head coaches during his NFL career. Sean Payton is unlike anyone he has been around.
Jackson came away impressed by Payton’s meticulous coaching style and how he taught the game during the Broncos’ OTAs and minicamp. While Jackson watched the former New Orleans Saints coach implement his game plan during Denver’s offseason program, the 13-year veteran realized he’s never worked with a football mind like Payton.
“It’s no disrespect to any of my other coaches,” Jackson said. “(Payton’s) attention to detail (and) the way he’s teaching everybody…the younger guys (might) not understand it now. I know later on they will appreciate it. Some of the things that he’s doing now, I haven’t experienced.”
For Jackson, that only reinforced his decision to return to Denver. The 35-year-old defensive back said the lure of unfinished business and the opportunity to play for Payton were the reasons he returned to Denver.
“(I) just wanted to be a part of something special,” said Jackson, who is entering his fifth season with the Broncos. “(I) would love to get a few extra dollars here and there, but (I) understand the group of guys we have and what we can do this year.”
Denver fortified its secondary in May when it signed Jackson to a one-year deal. Before he signed, Jackson had conversations with Payton to understand his vision for the team. It also helped that Payton won 152 games and a Super Bowl during his 15 years in New Orleans. “He’s capable of leading a team, so that was a huge part (in returning),” Jackson said.
Jackson brings experience and durability to the Broncos’ defense. The 2010 first-round pick has started in 61 games over the past four seasons. His production hasn’t wavered despite his age, as he totaled 94 tackles in 2022 and a team-best 88 in 2021.
“I think he’s one of the most underrated players, especially when you are talking about what we do and how we do it,” safety Justin Simmons said. “It’s huge to have Kareem back.”
Cornerback Pat Surtain II said Jackson’s knowledge and experience are needed in the secondary.
“He and Justin help the (defensive backs) room a lot,” Surtain said. “When you (have) guys like that, it helps out with your confidence.”
Jackson’s return allowed him to reunite with Vance Joseph, who was his defensive backs coach in Houston for three years. Jackson joked that Joseph added a few gray hairs since they worked together. But Denver’s defensive coordinator still coaches with a ton of energy.
“(Joseph) is one of the guys I give credit to for (putting) my career in the right direction,” said Jackson, who spent nine seasons with the Texans. “He’s smart (and) very detailed in what he does. I’m grateful to be back with him.”
