You could count on one hand the number of times Sean Payton seemed relaxed in his Friday news conferences last season. Maybe one finger. Like the middle one.
That is what made Friday interesting and further proof of his comfort level with his second Broncos team entering its first game of the season. He entertained questions, both broad and narrow. He cracked a smile, even showing a slice of self-deprecating humor regarding his college study habits.
Payton has found a desirable role straight out of central casting: the underdog. He’s reveling in it. He might as well be wearing Air Buds instead of Air Jordans.