NFL world reacts after Broncos fire coach

The Denver Broncos are doing their best to recover from the abject disaster that was trading for veteran quarterback Russell Wilson. This season was a major step in the right direction, as the Broncos made the playoffs for the first time since winning the Super Bowl behind an elite defense and Peyton Manning.

Unfortunately, the Buffalo Bills showed Denver just how far away the Broncos still are from being Super Bowl contenders. The Bills beat Denver 31-7 in the Wild Card Round.

Now, Denver is looking to make the necessary changes to return to competing for championships. And the powers that be felt that meant a major shakeup to the coaching staff.

“The (Broncos) have fired special teams coach Ben Kotwica, sources tell me and (Mike Garafolo) With (Saints) interim coach Darren Rizzi available, that’s quickly a name that makes sense for Sean Payton. Would expect they speak to him, at the least,” reported NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport early on Friday.

The #Broncos have fired special teams coach Ben Kotwica, sources tell me and @MikeGarafolo.

With #Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi available, that’s quickly a name that makes sense for Sean Payton. Would expect they speak to him, at the least.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 17, 2025

Fans reacted to the news on social media.

“Somewhat makes sense. Special teams offensive line costed the chiefs game and couldn’t do (their) one job. Marvin Mims was underwhelming this year as a returner and Dixon fell off halfway through the season! Welcome Darren Rizzi,” one fan wrote on Twitter.

“Sean Payton certainly ruffled feathers in Denver, but you gotta give the man his due – he’s turning that organization around,” another fan wrote.

“Hard to have an all-pro returner 2 years in a row and have one of the leagues best kickers and STILL get fired,” someone else added.

It’ll be interesting to see how long it takes the Broncos to return to AFC supremacy.