Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić is celebrated as one of the greatest passing big men in NBA history. However, when Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton was asked if this skill could translate to an NFL quarterback role, he surprisingly envisioned a different position for the three-time NBA MVP: tight end. While speaking with Nuggets sideline reporter Katy Winge during the team’s pregame show on Altitude Sports Network, Payton acknowledged Jokić’s impressive passing ability but emphasized that his soft hands would be a better fit for the tight end position rather than quarterback.
“I like it,” Payton stated. “I see a tight end though. I don’t see a quarterback. I think that’s why Mike (Malone) has kept me away from the warmup here. Probably can’t pay him as much as he gets paid. Obviously, it’s one thing to pass, but you also see someone who catches and has got real soft hands. What is often underrated or not discussed is how well someone can accept a pass; some people lack natural ball skills. He seems to have that. Additionally, we were just discussing his stamina and overall availability each night. He possesses a level of recovery that many players don’t have.”
With Broncos Head Coach Sean Payton in the house in Indianapolis, I had to ask him what he sees when he watches Nikola Jokić.
Tremendous answer. pic.twitter.com/bND1WB5Yms
— Katy Winge (@katywinge) February 25, 2025
Payton, who has experience as an NFL analyst during his brief retirement from the sport with the NFL on Fox studio team for the 2022-23 NFL season before returning to coaching in Denver, also has a keen eye for basketball talent. This is exemplified by his work with former Miami Hurricanes star Jimmy Graham, who played a critical role in the dynamic New Orleans Saints offense under Payton.
However, combining these insights may have led Payton to underestimate Jokić’s potential as a passer. With Payton in attendance, Jokić showcased his skills by delivering a career-high 19 assists in a 125-116 victory over the Indiana Pacers, perhaps prompting Payton to reconsider his earlier analysis.
Sean Payton witnessed Nikola Jokic dish out a career-high 19 assists. 🏀🏈pic.twitter.com/VnPNwjE1qY https://t.co/ThyfLsVARR
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 25, 2025
