From The Athlete Lifestyle On SI · · 1m
Sean Payton's Awkward Kiss With Charissa Thompson
Broncos coach Sean Payton kissed reporter Charissa Thompson before game, sparking social media debate.
In brief
Broncos coach Sean Payton kissed reporter Charissa Thompson before game, sparking social media debate. Sean Payton kissed Charissa Thompson on the cheek during pregame routine, causing social media discussion despite their past work together. Originally reported by The Athlete Lifestyle On SI.
Payton's pregame kiss
Sean Payton kissed Charissa Thompson on the cheek during pregame routine before Denver's Oct. 15 matchup.
“The cameras caught the exchange, and the footage quickly found an audience on social media”
Social media reaction
Fans found the interaction uncomfortable while others questioned why the moment attracted so much attention.
“Some found it awkward. Others wondered why the moment was attracting so much attention in the first place”
Payton and Thompson's history
Payton worked with Thompson on Fox Sports before joining Denver Broncos in 2023.
“After stepping away from the New Orleans Saints following the 2021 NFL season, Payton joined Fox Sports as an analyst in 2022. Thompson was part of the network's NFL coverage at the time”
Game result
Denver won 17-14 against Seattle after overtime with 168 total yards and 107 passing yards.
“The Broncos managed just 168 total yards against Seattle and struggled heavily on offense throughout the second half”
Game context
The Broncos' offense struggled with Bo Nix throwing 107 passing yards and a late Seahawks rally.
“Quarterback Bo Nix finished with 107 passing yards, and the Seahawks rallied late to force overtime”
Payton's stance
Payton left the stadium with a 4-2 record after the win but did not expect the kiss to become a major story.
“Payton left the stadium with the result he wanted. Whether he expected a routine pregame greeting to become one of the night's most widely discussed moments is another question entirely”
The headline
Sean Payton kissed Charissa Thompson on the cheek during pregame routine, causing social media discussion despite their past work together.
