Multiple reports say Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton explored a plan involving Bill Belichick to help him chase the NFL’s all-time head-coaching wins record. According to these accounts, Payton considered stepping aside from his role as Broncos head coach so Belichick could take over temporarily. The stated goal was to allow Belichick to pursue the record previously held by Don Shula. Both sources describe the concept as something Payton discussed and was willing to consider, but they indicate the idea never became reality. The reports frame the proposal as a hypothetical or unexecuted plan rather than an action that occurred during the season. They also do not describe any formal agreement or implementation details, beyond the claim that Payton was prepared to step back if it would have enabled Belichick to reach the milestone. Overall, the coverage indicates the notion was explored but not carried through, leaving Belichick without that specific pathway to the wins record through a Broncos coaching arrangement.