Broncos’ Vance Joseph Viewed As Strong HC Candidate; Davis Webb’s Stock Rising?
Buzz about Vance Joseph receiving a second chance in a head coaching role continues, as the Broncos ride a 10-game win streak into Week 15. Denver’s defense has powered this run, and Joseph stands to benefit soon.
Although Joseph scored interviews this past offseason, helming a top-tier defense for a second straight year makes him a superior candidate this time around. Teams are also looking at coaches with HC backgrounds during this cycle, and even though Joseph’s two-year Denver HC stay did not go well, his background plus a seven-year run as a DC (with the Cardinals and Broncos) since bodes well for his candidacy, per ESPN.com’s Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano.
Joseph went 11-21 with the Broncos from 2017-18, but he did not exactly draw good cards at quarterback. Hired over Kyle Shanahan in 2017, Joseph oversaw a QB situation that toggled between Trevor Siemian, Brock Osweiler and Paxton Lynch in 2017 before leading a team that signed Case Keenum in 2018. Siemian, Osweiler and Keenum have been better known as backups, while Lynch became one of this century’s biggest quarterback busts. This situation sunk Joseph, who coaxed above-average play from a defense still housing holdovers from Denver’s Super Bowl 50 lineup.
The first-time HC also did not have full autonomy over his staff at the time, according to Graziano. Then-GM John Elway was involved here as well. Joseph’s second Broncos roster was also 6-6, but it lost Chris Harris and Emmanuel Sanders late that year to help key a four-game, season-closing skid ahead of another HC change. Joseph rebounded in Arizona but has done his best coordinator work in Denver, where the team ranks fourth in scoring defense (after finishing third last year).
Joseph remains well-liked in Miami, where he was a one-year DC — before being hired as Broncos HC — according to Fowler. The Raiders interviewed Joseph this past year, and Graziano adds he could be a candidate in Las Vegas again. The Raiders have memorably hired two Denver DCs — Dennis Allen, Jack Del Rio — as HCs over the past 15 years.
As we covered in a Trade Rumors Front Office post last month, DCs could dominate this year’s hiring cycle. Joseph joins Chris Shula (Rams), Jeff Hafley (Packers), Robert Saleh and Jesse Minter (Chargers) as surefire candidates, while Fowler adds Seahawks DC Aden Durde, Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile and Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver are on the radar as well.
With offensive coaches still the quickest way to success and quarterback stability, teams will undoubtedly search for candidates on that front. That will ensure a few of these DCs stay put, but others in this lot will likely land jobs. Joseph, 53, and Saleh having previous HC experience also separates them from this batch of defensive play-callers.
Additionally, Broncos QBs coach Davis Webb looks to be a rising commodity within the coaching community. The third-year Denver QBs coach is viewed as “strong candidate,” per Graziano, presumably alluding to his OC prospects. Just 30, Webb has helped the Broncos since arriving after Russell Wilson‘s disastrous 2022 season. Wilson improved under Webb, Sean Payton and OC Joe Lombardi in 2023, and Bo Nix‘s success has surprised many — even if 2025 has brought inconsistency.
Webb could be a candidate to follow Joseph as OC, Graziano adds. The former reserve QB having experience in the Giants organization could bode well for him here, as they again search for stable leadership. Joseph and Webb leaving would represent a blow for a Broncos team that has completed a turnaround under Payton, and the Denver staff will be one to closely monitor when the hiring period begins next month.
Vance Joseph’s Head Coaching Stock Rising; Broncos DC Discusses Future
Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, who also served as the team’s head coach from 2017-18, interviewed for the Raiders’ and Jets’ HC posts in this year’s carousel. While he did not appear to be a serious contender for either job, an October report suggested he would be back on the head coaching radar in a more meaningful way in 2026, and Mike Klis of 9News confirms as much.
According to Kils, Joseph is the candidate who has been mentioned most frequently with respect to one of the HC vacancies in the upcoming cycle. After working as the Cardinals’ defensive coordinator from 2019-22, the 53-year-old joined Sean Payton’s first staff in Denver in 2023. Although his ‘23 unit finished near the bottom of the league in terms of both total defense and points per game, his 2024-25 defenses have been among the NFL’s best.
As Klis notes, Joseph is particularly well-regarded for his ability to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which is perhaps the most important attribute of a defense in the modern game. The Broncos have amassed a league-leading 112 sacks in the past one-and-a-half seasons, which is one of the reasons why Joseph is expected to generate so much HC interest (he has already been connected to the Titans’ vacancy).
When asked earlier this week about the attention his work has earned, Joseph predictably downplayed his HC aspirations while acknowledging that working under Payton has provided him with valuable insight as to how to “fix” a team (which is similar to what Commanders offensive coordinator and former Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury, Joseph’s ex-boss, recently said about working under Dan Quinn).
“It’s flattering, but my second time through the process, or my third or fourth time through the process, I don’t think about it,” Joseph said. “I really don’t because I know it’s about winning. Everyone wants to hire winners. They want to hire someone who’s fixed something. And there’s no better example than what we’ve done here the last three years. Being with Sean Payton helped my learning with how to fix a team.”
Joseph posted a disappointing 11-21 record in his two seasons as the Broncos’ bench boss, but Denver’s quarterback situation during that time left much to be desired. Additionally, Joseph’s team was 6-6 in 2018 before injuries to Pro Bowlers Chris Harris and Emmanuel Sanders helped key a four-game skid to close that season.
As of the time of this writing, the 9-2 Broncos are just a half-game behind the Patriots for the AFC’s No. 1 seed. Naturally, Joseph indicated his attention is focused on his team’s postseason push, and he said he will be happy to return to Denver if he does not land an HC job in 2026.
“The key is to win. And not worry about the process,” he said. “It’s the Broncos’ season right now and that’s my focus, honestly. If it happens, I’ll be happy. And if it doesn’t, I’m still going to have a good job. I have good players. I’m in a great city. I have no worries, honestly.”
His accomplishments aside, there could be another reason for the buzz around Joseph. As our Sam Robinson recently wrote in a subscribers-only piece, the would-be 2026 crop of offensive-minded HC talent (like Kingsbury) has not generated much momentum in 2025, which could make teams more inclined to consider defensive-oriented candidates.
Titans’ HC Search Underway; Team To Prioritize Previous HC Experience?
Titans president of football operations Chad Brinker might have final say over roster decisions, but both he and first-year general manager Mike Borgonzi will run the search for the club’s next head coach in the wake of Brian Callahan’s dismissal. As Albert Breer of SI.com reports, the duo is not waiting to begin the process and is already researching potential candidates.
Breer adds that Tennessee is not hiring a search firm to aid in the hunt. He also says Brinker and Borgonzi intend to be open-minded and will not focus on a particular “type” of coach.
It is unclear whether he simply means the Titans will consider offense- and defense-oriented coaches, or if the club’s open-mindedness will extend to candidates without previous HC experience. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the lack of success with Callahan – who had not risen above the coordinator ranks when he was hired in 2024 – makes it likely Tennessee opts for a candidate with a head coaching gig on their resume (along with “strong leadership qualities”).
Several of the names that already have been floated as potential targets, Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, do have recent experience in an HC post. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, who first reported Nagy’s and Smith’s candidacy, subsequently added Mike McCarthy and Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph to the list, and those coaches have also served as bench bosses in the past (McCarthy with the Packers and Cowboys, Joseph with Denver).
However, both Rapoport and Dianna Russini of The Athletic (subscription required) name Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo as a candidate to watch, with Russini also identifying Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver as someone who could interest Tennessee brass. Both men have interviewed for HC positions in recent history, with Anarumo earning a second interview for the Cardinals’ top job in 2023 and Weaver advancing to the second interview stage with the Saints, Falcons, and Commanders over the last two years.
Although neither Anarumo nor Weaver have landed a head coaching job yet, they could be popular interviewees in the upcoming cycle. Whether the Titans are the club to give them their first HC opportunity in light of the disastrous Callahan tenure remains to be seen, but even though Schefter says the club prefers an experienced hand, the ESPN scribe acknowledges Brinker and Borgonzi will cast a wide net in their evaluation process.
As Schefter also points out, Brinker was part of the Packers’ last HC search, which culminated in the Matt LaFleur hire. Titans assistant GM Dave Ziegler, who worked as a personnel advisor with the Saints last year, was part of New Orleans’ hunt for a new head coach after Dennis Allen was fired during the 2024 campaign. The Saints hired Kellen Moore shortly after Ziegler accepted his current job with the Titans.
Vance Joseph Moving Back Onto HC Radar
After the Broncos took significant steps forward defensively last season, the Jets and Raiders interviewed Vance Joseph for their respective head coaching posts. Denver’s third-year defensive coordinator should expect more interview slips in 2026.
The Broncos’ defense helped buy their offense time to mount a comeback Sunday in Philadelphia, and the team pulled off a 21-17 upset win. Joseph helmed Patrick Surtain to a Defensive Player of the Year showing last season, and recently extended edge rusher Nik Bonitto has an NFL-most seven sacks through five games. Joseph’s name is coming up again regarding head coaching interest, per ESPN.com’s Dan Graziano.
[RELATED: Recent Broncos Extensions Highlight Post-Russell Wilson Recovery]
Although Joseph interviewed for both the New York and Las Vegas gigs, he did not appear near the lead for either job. Joseph has been back on the DC level for the past seven seasons, having moved from his Broncos HC stint (2017-18) to Cardinals DC and a return to Denver as the AFC West club’s defensive boss. Sporadic success has come for Joseph, who has one of the league’s better units to work with early in Year 3 back in Colorado.
The rare coach who agreed to return as a coordinator for a team he once led as head coach, Joseph gone through a few HC interviews since his January 2019 Broncos ouster. He met about the Dolphins’ job in 2022, and the Cardinals interviewed him about succeeding ex-boss Kliff Kingsbury in 2023. Hired over Kyle Shanahan in 2017, Joseph went 11-21 as Broncos HC. That stint has hurt his chances of seeing a second opportunity.
To be fair, the Broncos did not outfit Joseph with much at quarterback during those seasons. As Paxton Lynch became one of this era’s biggest busts, Joseph had Trevor Siemian as his primary starter in 2017. The Broncos then gave Case Keenum by far his most lucrative contract (two years, $36MM) in 2018 but moved on from the journeyman after one season. Joseph’s second Broncos team also stood 6-6 before injuries to Pro Bowlers Chris Harris and Emmanuel Sanders helped key a four-game skid to close that season, leading to the team’s Vic Fangio hire. Keenum and Siemian moved toward the backup tier fairly soon after their Broncos tenures.
Fangio appeared to be higher on Sean Payton‘s DC wish list in 2023, but the current Eagles DC indicated it was too soon for him to return to Denver (the team had fired him in January 2022). Joseph, 53, saw his best two Cardinals defenses finish just outside the top 10 in scoring. The Broncos ranked third last season and sit second entering their Week 6 London matchup with the Jets. This momentum continuing should generate momentum for Joseph, as he is now seven years removed from his first HC opportunity.
Jets Start Submitting HC Interview Requests
JANUARY 17: Griese declined the Jets’ interview request, Brian Costello of the New York Post writes. That makes him the first candidate to turn down the chance to meet with the team. New York has, of course, nevertheless compiled a long list of targets as the search process for a new full-time head coach continues.
JANUARY 6: The Jets have been free to interview coaching candidates not currently under contract to other teams. Now that the regular season is over, however, formal interview requests can be made to speak with staffers employed elsewhere. 
The Jets have been quite busy on that front, sending out requests to numerous staffers as they map out the next phase of their search process. New York has already interviewed former head coaches Ron Rivera and (after the expiration of his Browns consulting contract) Mike Vrabel. The same will also be true of former Jets coach Rex Ryan, who said on Monday he sees himself as the top candidate.
In addition to those three, a slew of coaches have received an interview request. That includes Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik, as noted by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Slowik is in his second season leading Houston’s offense after he followed DeMeco Ryans from San Francisco. The Texans put up strong numbers during quarterback C.J. Stroud‘s rookie season, leading to head coaching interest in Slowik’s case. The 37-year-old’s unit regressed in 2024, but he has still landed at least one interview request this time around.
The Jets have also requested an interview with Arthur Smith, per Rapoport. That comes as little surprise given the interest New York showed in Smith this past offseason for a role on the team’s offensive staff. Smith instead took the Steelers’ OC gig, but a recent report noted he was likely to receive a look for head coach from the Jets. After three years at the helm of the Falcons (which consisted entirely of 7-10 seasons), Smith immediately moved on to his current role in Pittsburgh. He turned aside interest for North Carolina’s head coaching position, but it will be notable if he explores any HC vacancies at the NFL level this winter.
Another offensive staffer who has received an interview request is Joe Brady. Rapoport reports the Bills’ play-caller has received a slip from the Jets, one which could very well be followed by others shortly. Brady had a forgettable tenure under Matt Rhule with the Panthers, but he has been in Buffalo since 2022. The 35-year-old took over as interim OC midway through last season, and that move sparked improvement in the team’s run game in particular. Brady remained in place on a full-time basis for 2024, and he again guided Buffalo to a strong showing on offense.
Remaining on the offensive side of the ball, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reports New York is interested in speaking with Matt Nagy. The former Bears head coach would meet the Jets’ desire to add an experienced leader on the sidelines, although Nagy’s Chicago tenure did not yield much in the way of success after 2018. Following his Chicago firing after the 2021 campaign, Nagy returned to the Chiefs to serve as their QBs coach. The 46-year-old was then promoted to offensive coordinator (in a non play-calling capacity) last offseason following Eric Bieniemy‘s departure. Nagy’s work in that role has put him on the HC radar, with the Saints also being a team believed to have interest.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Brian Griese has also received an interview request. The longtime quarterback had a stretch working as an ESPN analyst from 2009-22, but since then he has worked as a member of the 49ers’ coaching staff. This season marked his third as San Francisco’s quarterbacks coach, and as such Griese has played a large role in developing Brock Purdy into a candidate for the NFL’s next mega-extension at the position. Given his lack of coaching experience, a jump to HC would come as a surprise at this point, but Griese could receive some consideration from the Jets.
Vikings QBs coach Josh McCown is another staffer with an offensive background whom the Jets are looking into. Schefter reports the 45-year-old has received an interview request. McCown’s playing career ended in 2020, and it did not take long for him to transition to coaching. He coached the Panthers’ quarterbacks last season before taking on the same role with the Vikings for 2024. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has understandably received praise for Sam Darnold‘s strong play this year, but McCown’s role has no doubt helped his stock as well.
Having moved on from Robert Saleh midseason and struggled under interim HC (and former defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich), it would come as no surprise if an offensive staffer were to be targeted by the Jets. Not all candidates have that background, though. Schefter reports Vance Joseph has received an interview request, one which may well be followed by others this cycle. His work leading the Broncos’ defense (No. 7 in yards allowed, No. 3 in scoring) has not gone unnoticed, and a second head coaching opportunity could come about as a result. Joseph, 52, coached the Broncos in 2017 and ’18. 
Another popular candidate is Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, and NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports the Jets have submitted a request. Glenn has been in his current role since 2021, and after receiving confidence from head coach Dan Campbell in the wake of previous poor outings his unit has shown improvement this year. Despite dealing with several injuries, the Lions ranked seventh in scoring defense en route to the top seed in the NFC. Glenn has not worked as a head coach in the NFL before, but the 2025 cycle could present his first opportunity to do so.
Rounding out defensive candidates, Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reports Brian Flores is on the list of staffers New York wishes to speak with. His success as Vikings defensive coordinator has boosted his stock, and the former Dolphins coach made it clear earlier this season he would welcome another opportunity to lead a staff. Other suitors could be in play as well, and Flores’ interview process will be worth watching closely.
Other candidates will no doubt emerge soon, but for now the Jets have a long list of targets as they seek out Saleh’s long-term replacement. It will be interesting to see where Ulbrich fits into this equation; in any event, though, he figures to have considerable competition for the gig.
2025 NFL Head Coaching Search Tracker
With the Cowboys and Mike McCarthy splitting up, seven teams have made coaching changes so far during this year’s cycle. Here are the candidates connected to each of the HC-needy franchises. If more teams make changes, they will be added to the list.
Updated 2-11-25 (11:40am CT)
Chicago Bears
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Candidate expressed interest
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator (Bills): Interviewed 1/17
- Thomas Brown, interim head coach (Bears): Interviewed 1/13
- Matt Campbell, head coach (Iowa State): Interview expected
- Pete Carroll, former head coach (Seahawks): Interviewed 1/9; hired by Raiders
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): Interviewed 1/18
- Marcus Freeman, head coach (Notre Dame): Team wants to interview
- Eddie George, head coach (Tennessee State): Interviewed 1/19
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/11
- Ben Johnson, offensive coordinator (Lions): Hired
- Mike Kafka, offensive coordinator (Giants): Interviewed 1/9
- Kliff Kingsbury, offensive coordinator (Commanders): Interview requested, won’t interview until after season
- Mike McCarthy, head coach (Cowboys): Interviewed 1/15
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed 1/17; to remain with Ravens
- Drew Petzing, offensive coordinator (Cardinals): Interviewed 1/8
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed 1/12
- David Shaw, senior personnel executive (Broncos): Interviewed 1/14
- Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator (Steelers): Interviewed 1/15
- Adam Stenavich, offensive coordinator (Packers): Interviewed 1/18
- Mike Tomlin, head coach (Steelers): Denied meeting
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Interviewed 1/8; hired by Patriots
- Anthony Weaver, defensive coordinator (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/9
Dallas Cowboys
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Mutual interest would have existed
- Pete Carroll, former head coach (Seahawks): Discussed position; hired by Raiders
- Leslie Frazier, assistant head coach (Seahawks): Interviewed 1/20
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Mentioned as candidate; hired by Jets
- Kliff Kingsbury, offensive coordinator (Commanders): Mentioned as candidate; won’t interview until after season
- Anthony Lynn, run game coordinator/running backs coach (Commanders: Mutual interest expressed
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed 1/17; frontrunner?
- Robert Saleh, former head coach (Jets): Interviewed 1/18
- Deion Sanders, head coach (Colorado): Discussions commenced; no deal expected
- Brian Schottenheimer, offensive coordinator (Cowboys): Hired
- Jason Witten, head coach (Liberty Christian School): Strong contender?
Jacksonville Jaguars
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator (Bills): Interviewed 1/18
- Liam Coen, offensive coordinator (Buccaneers): Hired
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): Interviewed 1/17
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/11; hired by Jets
- Patrick Graham, defensive coordinator (Raiders): Conducted second interview 1/23
- Ben Johnson, offensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/11; hired by Bears
- Kliff Kingsbury, offensive coordinator (Commanders): Rumored candidate, won’t interview until after season
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed 1/16; to remain with Ravens
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed 1/17
- Robert Saleh, former head coach (Jets): Second interview on hold
- Steve Spagnuolo, defensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/10
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Mentioned as candidate; hired by Patriots
Las Vegas Raiders
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Contacted about job
- Pete Carroll, former head coach (Seahawks): Hired
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): Mentioned as candidate
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/10; hired by Jets
- Ben Johnson, offensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/10; hired by Bears
- Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator (Broncos): Interviewed 1/16
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interview declined; to remain with Ravens
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed 1/17
- Robert Saleh, former head coach (Jets): Interviewed 1/16
- Deion Sanders, head coach (Colorado): Reportedly interested, but interest is not mutual
- Steve Spagnuolo, defensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/10
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Interview declined; hired by Patriots
New England Patriots
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): Interested in position
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interview declined
- Pep Hamilton, former offensive coordinator (Texans): Interviewed 1/7
- Ben Johnson, offensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/10
- Byron Leftwich, former offensive coordinator (Buccaneers): Interviewed 1/7
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Hired
New Orleans Saints
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator (Bills): Hope to schedule second interview; remaining with Bills
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): To conduct second interview; hired by Jets
- Mike Kafka, offensive coordinator (Giants): Conducted second interview 1/25
- Kliff Kingsbury, offensive coordinator (Commanders): To stay with Commanders
- Mike McCarthy, head coach (Cowboys): Withdrew from consideration
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Eagles): Hired
- Matt Nagy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Mentioned as candidate
- Darren Rizzi, interim head coach (Saints): Interviewed 1/17
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Interview being arranged; hired by Patriots
- Anthony Weaver, defensive coordinator (Dolphins): Conducted second interview 1/24
New York Jets
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Showed interest; meeting never scheduled
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator (Bills): To interview
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): Interviewed 1/17
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Conducted second interview 1/21; Hired
- Brian Griese, quarterbacks coach (49ers): Interview declined
- Jeff Hafley, defensive coordinator (Packers): Interviewed 1/17
- Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator (Broncos): Interviewed 1/15
- Mike Locksley, head coach (Maryland): Interviewed 1/10
- Josh McCown, quarterbacks coach (Vikings): Interviewed 1/17
- Matt Nagy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/8
- Ron Rivera, former head coach (Commanders): Interviewed
- Darren Rizzi, interim head coach (Saints): Interviewed 1/11
- Rex Ryan, former head coach (Bills): Interviewed 1/7
- Bobby Slowik, offensive coordinator (Texans): Interviewed 1/16
- Steve Spagnuolo, defensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interviewed 1/10
- Arthur Smith, offensive coordinator (Steelers): Interviewed 1/16
- Jeff Ulbrich, interim head coach (Jets): Interviewed 1/13; hired as Falcons’ defensive coordinator
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Interviewed 1/3; hired by Patriots
- Joe Whitt, defensive coordinator (Commanders): Interviewed 1/19
Raiders Request HC Interview With Broncos DC Vance Joseph
Another candidate has emerged for the Raiders’ head coaching vacancy. Vegas has requested an interview with Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. 
This is not the first slip Joseph has received for the 2025 hiring cycle. The Jets put in a request to speak with him, and with the Broncos’ season now over Joseph will be free to meet with any interested teams. Bovada’s Josina Anderson reports Joseph’s New York interview will likely take place on Wednesday, while his Raiders meeting is expected to happen on Thursday or Friday.
Vegas promoted Antonio Pierce from interim to full-time head coach last offseason, but he proved to be a one-and-done staffer in that role. The Raiders initially seemed set to retain general manager Tom Telesco, but he too was dismissed last week. Controlling owner Mark Davis thus has a pair of major decisions to make in the immediate future, although it has become increasingly clear minority owner Tom Brady is playing a major role in both search processes. A second attempt at establishing the ‘Patriot Way’ (as the team did with Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler) will not take place in 2025, but otherwise it remains to be seen how the Raiders will proceed.
Joseph returned to Denver last year, having served as the team’s head coach for 2017 and ’18. His first season leading the Broncos’ defense produced underwhelming results, but in 2024 the unit took a major step forward. Finishing seventh in yards allowed and third in points surrendered, Denver’s return to the postseason was built in large part on strong defensive play. To no surprise, then, Joseph’s name will be one to watch as the 2025 hiring cycle takes shape.
Via PFR’s coaching search tracker, here is an updated look out how the Raiders’ search is taking shape:
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Contacted about job
- Pete Carroll, former head coach (Seahawks): To interview 1/13
- Brian Flores, defensive coordinator (Vikings): Mentioned as candidate
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/10
- Ben Johnson, offensive coordinator (Lions): Interviewed 1/10
- Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator (Broncos): Interview requested
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interview requested
- Robert Saleh, former head coach (Jets): To interview 1/16
- Deion Sanders, head coach (Colorado): Reportedly interested, but interest is not mutual
- Steve Spagnuolo, defensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interview requested
- Mike Vrabel, former head coach (Titans): Interview declined; hired by Patriots
Broncos Assistants To Receive Interest From Other Teams?
The Broncos are surpassing expectations as they’ve rattled off three straight wins to match the Chargers’ 8-5 record to draw even with them in the AFC West. While the players are taking care of business, their success is in no small part due to the coaching staff put together in Sean Payton‘s second head coaching tenure, as well. That fact hasn’t gone unnoticed in league circles. 
According to Mike Klis of 9NEWS, the team’s winning ways could result in a good amount of turnover on the coaching staff. Klis points out that the team hasn’t had a coordinator hired away for a head coaching job since former defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio left to coach the Raiders in 2015. Similarly, no one has left the front office for greener pastures since 2005, when then-director of pro personnel Rick Smith left to become the Texans general manager.
This year, Klis has identified a few staffers who could get offered bigger jobs. First, he notes that defensive coordinator (and former head coach) Vance Joseph‘s work has been impressive enough to perhaps earn him a second look at a head coaching gig. While the loss would sting the Broncos, Denver could possibly benefit from the compensatory picks they would receive for letting go of a minority coordinator.
Davis Webb has only been coaching for two years, barely removed from the end of his playing career, but he has been impressive as a quarterbacks coach helping Payton coach Russell Wilson through a bounce back season last year and rookie quarterback Bo Nix to an 8-5 record and potential Offensive Rookie of the Year consideration. Webb’s success could lead to some extremely early coordinator looks for the 29-year-old.
Another former player turned coach, defensive back coach and pass game coordinator Jim Leonhard could certainly be getting some defensive coordinator looks. Following the end of his playing career as a crafty safety, Leonhard went back to his alma mater to coach defensive backs at Wisconsin. After only a year coaching the position, he was promoted to defensive coordinator and seemed destined for the head coaching job after Paul Chryst was fired. He was passed over for the gig and, after a year as an analyst at Illinois, rejoined the ranks of the NFL with the Broncos. It’s only been a year, but Leonhard could be a popular name when jobs open up.
Lastly, Klis gives credit to assistant general manager Darren Mougey. Hired as a scouting intern 12 years ago, Mougey has quietly climbed the ranks in the personnel department, working alongside former general manager John Elway and current general manager George Patton. His impact and longevity over the years could put him in a prime position once interviews start for open general manager jobs.
Matt Patricia Still In Play For Broncos; Sean Payton Discusses Vic Fangio Pursuit
The NFL’s coordinator carousel is slowing down, after nearly two months of spinning. The ride left Matt Patricia without a position, with the Patriots hiring Bill O’Brien after using the longtime defensive staffer in the strange role of de facto offensive coordinator.
Another Patricia path closed when the Broncos hired Vance Joseph as defensive coordinator, bringing back the veteran coach four years after firing him as head coach. Patricia, however, is still in play to work under Joseph. Sean Payton confirmed Tuesday he plans to meet with Patricia about a staff position.
“He and I are gonna talk this week, and I wouldn’t rule that out, though. If that were to possibly come to fruition, it would be for a few things,” Payton said, via the Detroit News’ Justin Rogers. “I’d certainly want to talk to Vance and our defensive coaches, but I know Matt well enough to know how smart he is and what he can contribute.”
Patricia, who also joined Rex Ryan and Sean Desai as candidates for the Broncos’ DC gig, has spent the past two-plus seasons back with the Patriots. Bill Belichick rehired him, following a rough go of it as Lions HC, and installed his longtime lieutenant at different positions. Patricia spent time in an executive role upon coming back to New England and was given significant responsibilities on offense last season, working as Belichick’s top assistant on that side of the ball. That unorthodox plan did not work out, and O’Brien’s arrival left Patricia in limbo. His Pats contract expired. Patricia’s Lions contract expiring also may have played a role in the veteran looking for a role outside of New England.
Payton and Patricia have not worked together; the latter spent 14 years with the Pats — six as DC — before landing the Lions’ top job. The Broncos are keeping two holdovers on defense — DBs coach Christian Parker and D-line coach Marcus Dixon — and have already added Greg Manusky and Michael Wilhoite to head up their inside and outside linebackers, respectively. Patricia, 48, would make sense as a senior defensive assistant, but Joseph will have to sign off on one of his competitors for the DC job joining the staff.
Although Payton made the rare move to bring a fired HC back to the same team that ousted him, he confirmed he wanted Joseph’s Broncos HC successor — Vic Fangio — to come back. Payton and Fangio were linked to joining forces back in December, but the latter received a host of opportunities and ended up signing a three-year deal with the Dolphins. Fangio is set to be the league’s highest-paid DC.
“Do I think he would have been a great asset for us? Yes. We were planning, in this year/wave, if the right scenario came up we’d work together,” Payton said. “I think [the Denver fit] was just a little unique because it wasn’t too long ago he was here, but certainly I tried, talked to him, tried to twist his arm. I’m excited for his opportunity in Miami.”
Payton’s Patricia and Fangio comments made for an interesting morning for Joseph, who agreed to rejoin a team that sacked him four years ago. The initial report of Fangio agreeing to terms with the Dolphins surfaced Jan. 29; the Broncos hired Payton on Jan. 31. While Fangio’s Dolphins agreement did not become finalized for a stretch, it can be assumed Payton still attempted to pursue him for the Denver job. This all occurred before Joseph entered the picture. The Broncos’ Joseph interview request did not come out until Feb. 16. Payton confirmed Joseph’s time as Arizona’s defensive coordinator — a post the recent Cardinals HC candidate called “a tough job for a number of years” — did well to vault him past Denver’s other DC candidates.
Fangio, 64, coached the Broncos from 2019-21. Unlike Joseph, who was not with the team during GM George Paton‘s tenure, Fangio lost his job at the conclusion of Paton’s first season with the team. The Scranton, Pa., native worked with the Eagles as a consultant last season but planned on making a full-fledged DC return in 2023. The Dolphins paid him handsomely to do so.
2023 Offensive/Defensive Coordinator Search Tracker
As the head coaching carousel spun for several weeks, many teams made coordinator changes as well. Teams seeking new head coaches are conducting OC and DC searches, and a handful of other teams that did not make HC changes are also searching for top assistants.
This is a big year for offensive coordinator hires, with nearly half the league making changes. Here are the teams searching for new OCs and DCs. As new searches emerge, they will be added to the list.
Updated 3-1-23 (3:31pm CT)
Offensive Coordinators
Arizona Cardinals
- Drew Petzing, quarterbacks coach (Browns): Hired
- Drew Terrell, wide receivers coach (Commanders): Interview requested
- Joel Thomas, running backs coach (Saints): Interview requested
- Troy Walters, wide receivers coach (Bengals): Interview requested
Baltimore Ravens (Out: Greg Roman)
- Brian Angelichio, tight ends coach (Vikings): Conducted second interview
- Eric Bieniemy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interview being arranged
- Dave Canales, quarterbacks coach (Seahawks): Conducted second interview 2/6
- Bobby Engram, offensive coordinator (Wisconsin): Interviewed twice
- George Godsey, tight ends coach (Ravens): Interviewed
- Chad Hall, wide receivers coach (Bills): Interviewed 2/1
- Brian Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Eagles): Expected to interview?
- Byron Leftwich, former offensive coordinator (Buccaneers): Interviewed
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Georgia): Hired
- Doug Nussmeier, former quarterbacks coach (Cowboys): Interviewed
- Chad O’Shea, wide receivers coach (Browns): Interviewed 1/23
- Justin Outten, offensive coordinator (Broncos): Conducted second interview 2/7
- Dan Pitcher, quarterbacks coach (Bengals): Received interest, extended by Bengals
- Frank Reich, former head coach (Colts): Mentioned as candidate
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interviewed 1/24
- James Urban, quarterbacks coach (Ravens): Interviewed
Carolina Panthers (Out: Ben McAdoo)
- Thomas Brown, tight ends coach, (Rams): Hired
- Jim Bob Cooter, passing-game coordinator (Jaguars): Interviewed
Dallas Cowboys (Out: Kellen Moore)
- Brian Angelichio, tight ends coach (Vikings): Interviewed 2/2
- Thomas Brown, tight ends coach (Rams): Interviewed
- Jeff Nixon, running backs coach (Panthers): Interviewed
- Brian Schottenheimer, offensive consultant (Cowboys): Hired
Denver Broncos (Out: Justin Outten)
- Ronald Curry, quarterbacks coach (Saints): Interviewed; to stay with Saints
- Joe Lombardi, former offensive coordinator (Chargers): Hired
Houston Texans (Out: Pep Hamilton)
- Nick Caley, tight ends coach (Patriots): Interviewed
- Jerrod Johnson, assistant quarterbacks coach (Vikings): Interviewed; named quarterbacks coach
- Kliff Kingsbury, former head coach (Cardinals): Interviewed 2/10
- Bobby Slowik, passing-game coordinator (49ers): Hired
- Troy Walters, wide receivers coach (Bengals): Interview requested
Indianapolis Colts (Out: Parks Frazier)
- Jim Bob Cooter, passing-game coordinator (Jaguars): Hired
- Tee Martin, wide receivers coach (Ravens): Interview requested
Kansas City Chiefs (Out: Eric Bieniemy)
- Matt Nagy, quarterbacks coach (Chiefs): Hired
Los Angeles Chargers (Out: Joe Lombardi)
- Joe Brady, quarterbacks coach (Bills): Interview requested
- Thomas Brown, tight ends coach (Rams): Interviewed 1/25
- Jerrod Johnson, assistant quarterbacks coach (Vikings): Interviewed 1/25
- Kellen Moore, former offensive coordinator (Cowboys): Hired
- Greg Olson, senior offensive assistant (Rams): Interviewed 1/24
- Frank Reich, former head coach (Colts): Mentioned as candidate
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Interview requested
- Luke Steckel, tight ends coach (Titans): Interviewed 1/26
Los Angeles Rams (Out: Liam Coen)
- Marcus Brady, offensive consultant (Eagles): Interviewed
- Thomas Brown, tight ends coach (Rams): Mentioned as candidate
- Brian Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Eagles): Interviewed
- Mike LaFleur, former offensive coordinator (Jets): Hired
- Wes Phillips, offensive coordinator (Vikings): Declined interview request
- Frank Reich, former head coach (Colts): Mentioned as candidate
- Zac Robinson, quarterbacks coach (Rams): Mentioned as candidate
New York Jets (Out: Mike LaFleur)
- Darrell Bevell, quarterbacks coach (Dolphins): Declined interview request
- Marcus Brady, offensive consultant (Eagles): Interviewed
- Nick Caley, tight ends coach (Patriots): Interviewed 1/17
- Bill Callahan, offensive line coach (Browns): Declined interview request
- Nathaniel Hackett, former head coach (Broncos): Hired
- Brian Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Eagles): Interviewed
- Klint Kubiak, quarterbacks coach (Broncos): Interviewed 1/22
- Chad O’Shea, wide receivers coach (Browns): Interviewed 1/20
- Kevin Patullo, passing-game coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed
- Frank Reich, former head coach (Colts): Mentioned as candidate
Philadelphia Eagles (Out: Shane Steichen)
- Brian Johnson, quarterbacks coach (Eagles): Promoted
- Kevin Patullo, passing-game coordinator (Eagles): Mentioned as candidate
- Nate Scheelhaase, offensive coordinator (Iowa State): Interviewed
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Out: Byron Leftwich)
- Thomas Brown, tight ends coach (Rams): To conduct second interview 2/15
- Dave Canales, quarterbacks coach (Seahawks): Hired
- Jim Bob Cooter, passing-game coordinator (Jaguars): Interviewed 1/26
- Ronald Curry, passing game coordinator/quarterbacks coach (Saints): Interviewed 1/31
- Pep Hamilton, offensive coordinator (Texans): Declined interview request
- Klint Kubiak, quarterbacks coach (Broncos): Interviewed 1/26
- Keenan McCardell, wide receivers coach (Vikings): Interviewed 1/26
- Todd Monken, offensive coordinator (Georgia): Interviewed 1/31
- Scottie Montgomery, running backs coach (Lions): Interviewed 2/13
- Kellen Moore, former offensive coordinator (Cowboys): mentioned as candidate
- Dan Pitcher, quarterbacks coach (Bengals): Interviewed 1/27; conducted second interview with Bucs but will remain with Bengals
- Shea Tierney, quarterbacks coach (Giants): Interviewed 1/31
Tennessee Titans (Out: Todd Downing)
- Eric Bieniemy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Interview requested
- Tim Kelly, passing-game coordinator (Titans): Hired
- Charles London, quarterbacks coach (Falcons): To interview
- Matt Nagy, quarterbacks coach (Chiefs): Interview requested
Washington Commanders (Out: Scott Turner)
- Darrell Bevell, quarterbacks coach (Dolphins): Declined interview request
- Eric Bieniemy, offensive coordinator (Chiefs): Hired
- Thomas Brown, tight ends coach (Rams): Interviewed 1/24
- Jim Caldwell, former head coach (Lions): Declined interview request
- Charles London, quarterbacks coach (Falcons): Interview requested
- Anthony Lynn, assistant head coach/running backs coach (49ers): Interviewed 2/1
- Greg Roman, former offensive coordinator (Ravens): Interviewed 2/14
- Pat Shurmur, former offensive coordinator (Broncos): Interviewed; fallback option?
- Eric Studesville, running backs coach (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/23
- Ken Zampese, quarterbacks coach (Commanders): Interviewed 1/18
Defensive Coordinators
Arizona Cardinals (Out: Vance Joseph)
- Dave Borgonzi, linebackers coach (Bears): Interviewed 2/17
- DeMarcus Covington, defensive line coach (Patriots): Interview requested
- Nick Rallis, linebackers coach (Eagles): Hired
Atlanta Falcons (Out: Dean Pees)
- Ejiro Evero, former defensive coordinator (Broncos): Interview blocked
- Vic Fangio, former head coach (Broncos): Interviewed
- Brian Flores, linebackers coach (Steelers): Interview requested; mutual interest?
- Jerry Gray, defensive backs coach (Packers): Interview requested
- Al Holcomb, interim defensive coordinator (Panthers): Interview requested
- Ryan Nielsen, co-defensive coordinator (Saints): Hired
Buffalo Bills (Out: Leslie Frazier)
- John Butler, defensive backs coach (Bills): Mentioned as candidate
Carolina Panthers (Out: Al Holcomb)
- Ejiro Evero, former defensive coordinator (Broncos): Hired
- Vic Fangio, former head coach (Broncos): Interviewed
- Marquand Manuel, safeties coach (Jets): Interviewed
- Kris Richard, co-defensive coordinator (Saints): Interviewed
Denver Broncos
- Sean Desai, defensive assistant (Seahawks): Interviewed 2/7
- Ejiro Evero, former defensive coordinator (Broncos): Released from contract
- Brian Flores, linebackers coach (Steelers): Interview cancelled
- Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator (Cardinals): Hired
- Matt Patricia, senior football advisor (Patriots): Interviewed 2/22
- Christian Parker, defensive backs coach (Broncos): Interviewed
- Kris Richard, former co-defensive coordinator (Saints): Interviewed
- Rex Ryan, former head coach (Bills): Conducted second interview 2/18; considered favorite?
- Mike Zimmer, former head coach (Vikings): Mentioned as candidate; interviewed for separate Broncos job
Houston Texans
- Matt Burke, defensive line coach (Cardinals): Hired
- Chris Harris, defensive backs coach (Commanders): Interview requested
- Kris Kocurek, defensive line coach (49ers): Mentioned as candidate; expected to remain with 49ers
- Marquand Manuel, safeties coach (Jets): Interviewed 2/7
- Cory Undlin, passing-game specialist/secondary coach (49ers): Mentioned as candidate
Los Angeles Chargers (Out: Renaldo Hill)
- Derrick Ansley, defensive backs coach (Chargers): Promoted
- Doug Belk, defensive coordinator (Houston): Interviewed
- DeMarcus Covington, defensive line coach (Patriots): Interviewed
Miami Dolphins (Out: Josh Boyer)
- Anthony Campanile, linebackers coach (Dolphins): Interviewed 1/27
- Sean Desai, defensive assistant (Seahawks): Interviewed 1/25
- Vic Fangio, former head coach (Broncos): Hired
- Kris Richard, co-defensive coordinator (Saints): Interviewed 1/26
Minnesota Vikings (Out: Ed Donatell)
- Sean Desai, defensive assistant (Seahawks): Interviewed 1/24; to withdraw from search
- Ejiro Evero, former defensive coordinator (Broncos): Expected to interview
- Brian Flores, linebackers coach (Steelers): Hired
- Ryan Nielsen, co-defensive coordinator (Saints): Interview requested
- Mike Pettine, defensive assistant (Vikings): Interviewed 1/25
New Orleans Saints (Out: Ryan Nielsen, Kris Richard)
- Joe Woods, former defensive coordinator (Browns): Hired
Philadelphia Eagles (Out: Jonathan Gannon)
- Sean Desai, defensive assistant (Seahawks): Hired
- Vance Joseph, defensive coordinator (Cardinals): Interviewed 2/21-2/22
- Jesse Minter, defensive coordinator (Michigan): Interviewed
- Glenn Schumann, co-defensive coordinator (Georgia): Interviewed
- Chris Shula, defensive backs coach (Rams): Interviewed
- Jim Leonhard, defensive coordinator (Wisconsin): Interviewed
- Dennard Wilson, defensive backs coach (Eagles): Mentioned as candidate
San Francisco 49ers (Out: DeMeco Ryans)
- Vic Fangio, former head coach (Broncos): On radar
- Chris Harris, defensive backs coach (Commanders): Interviewed 1/31
- Kris Kocurek, defensive line coach (49ers): On radar
- Steve Wilks, former interim head coach (Panthers): Hired
