Broncos Fire Special Teams Coach in Major Offseason Shakeup
The Denver Broncos are working to rebound from the challenges of recent seasons, including the high-profile trade for veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. This past season marked significant progress, as the team made its first playoff appearance since winning the Super Bowl with Peyton Manning at the helm and an elite defense leading the way.
Despite this progress, the Broncos were shown the gap between themselves and true Super Bowl contention. In the Wild Card Round, they suffered a decisive 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills, highlighting areas that still need improvement. In response, the organization has begun making changes to position itself for future success.
The first major move came with the firing of special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport broke the news on Friday, reporting that Kotwica’s departure could pave the way for the Broncos to pursue former New Orleans Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi. Rapoport stated, “With Rizzi available, that’s quickly a name that makes sense for Sean Payton. Would expect they speak to him, at the least.”
Fan reactions to Kotwica’s firing have been mixed but largely understanding. One Twitter user noted the special teams’ struggles throughout the season, writing, “Makes sense. Special teams and offensive line cost us the Chiefs game and couldn’t do their one job. Marvin Mims underwhelmed as a returner, and Dixon’s performance dropped off halfway through the season. Welcome, Darren Rizzi!” Another fan reflected on the broader impact of head coach Sean Payton’s leadership, saying, “Sean Payton certainly ruffled feathers in Denver, but you’ve got to give the man his due—he’s turning that organization around.”
Others expressed surprise at the decision, given some of the talent Kotwica had to work with. “Hard to have an All-Pro returner two years in a row and one of the league’s best kickers and STILL get fired,” one fan commented.
The Broncos’ playoff appearance and subsequent loss to Buffalo underscore the progress and challenges facing the team. Under Payton’s leadership, the Broncos have shown flashes of potential but still need to address weaknesses to become a dominant force in the AFC. Improving special teams could be a crucial step toward achieving that goal.
Darren Rizzi, if hired, would bring a wealth of experience to the role. With a strong track record as a special teams coordinator, Rizzi has helped his units excel in various aspects of the game, from coverage to return performance. His potential addition to the Broncos’ staff could bolster a team eager to compete for championships again.
The firing of Kotwica is likely just the beginning of Denver’s offseason adjustments. With Sean Payton at the helm, the Broncos appear committed to making the necessary changes to return to AFC supremacy. Fans will be watching closely to see how the team evolves and whether these moves pay dividends in the coming season.
