The Denver Broncos have reinforced their special teams with the signing of punter Matt Haack to a one-year, $1.255 million contract. The 30-year-old, who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2017, reunites with Denver’s assistant head coach Darren Rizzi, who previously coached him at the Miami Dolphins. Haack brings a wealth of experience, having played for seven NFL teams, including a recent stint with the New York Giants. Throughout his career, he has averaged 44.7 yards per punt, with a long of 70 yards and 169 punts downed inside the 20-yard line.

This move follows the Broncos' earlier decision to let in-house free agent Riley Dixon go and missing out on Bryan Anger. While Haack is a solid addition, the team hasn't ruled out adding another punter through the draft or a college free agent ahead of training camp.

The Denver Broncos and New Orleans Saints recently engaged in a coaching staff standoff, primarily revolving around Darren Rizzi, the former special teams coordinator for the Saints, who was a strong candidate for their head coach position. Sean Payton of the Broncos humorously communicated with Saints GM Mickey Loomis about hiring timelines, leading to a situation where both teams navigated their respective coaching needs delicately.

Ultimately, the Saints decided to hire Kellen Moore, which cleared the way for Payton to bring in Rizzi as the Broncos' special teams coordinator and assistant head coach. Payton's history with Rizzi was highlighted by fond memories and respect from the late Tony Sparano, emphasizing Rizzi's potential for further success in future coaching roles. Looking ahead, Rizzi's immediate task will involve finding a new punter, crucial for the Broncos as they strengthen their special teams unit.

Sean Payton's high standards for coaches have led to significant turnover within the Denver Broncos' coaching staff, resulting in five vacancies. Special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica and inside linebackers coach Greg Manusky were dismissed, while other coaches received promotions elsewhere. Payton's primary target for special teams is Darren Rizzi, contingent on his release from the New Orleans Saints. For inside linebackers, a number of candidates exist, including Joe Vitt, who has extensive experience. The passing game coordinator position could see Zack Grossi promoted, though health concerns may hinder this. The tight end coach role is up for grabs following Lunda Wells' departure, with limited candidates emerging.

The challenges of filling these roles reflect Payton's emphasis on excellence and the potential for assistants to ascend to higher positions elsewhere. His track record suggests a mix of seasoned professionals and young talent will be sought to fill the coaching gaps, setting the stage for potential improvements as the Broncos look to enhance performance in the upcoming season.

Darren Rizzi, previously associated with the New Orleans Saints, is expected to join the Denver Broncos as their new special teams coordinator. This move follows a tumultuous period for the Broncos' special teams, which has seen multiple key departures. Rizzi's history with current Broncos head coach Sean Payton, under whom he worked for three seasons at the Saints, makes this an appealing partnership. Rizzi brings a wealth of experience from his 14 years as a special teams coach, including his time as interim head coach in New Orleans.

Despite some struggles within the special teams unit, highlighted by missed opportunities such as a blocked field goal in a pivotal game against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Broncos have seen significant contributions from standout players. Marvin Mims Jr. has secured back-to-back All-Pro honors as the league's top punt returner, while kicker Wil Lutz has been a reliable presence, converting a majority of his field goals.

Alvin Kamara, the standout running back for the New Orleans Saints, has voiced his support for Darren Rizzi as the team's next head coach. In a recent post on X, Kamara cryptically stated that his choice for head coach "rhyme wit Fizzi", a clear nod to Rizzi, who has been with the Saints' coaching staff since 2019. Following the dismissal of Dennis Allen, Rizzi stepped in as the interim head coach, achieving a 3-5 record over eight games, which reflects a notable turnaround from the team's earlier struggles.

While Rizzi has garnered endorsements, the Saints have also been exploring a range of other candidates, including former NFL coaches like Mike McCarthy. The ongoing discussions about the head coaching position signal a pivotal moment for the franchise as they look to rebuild and enhance their prospects for the upcoming seasons.