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.

The Chicago Bears have officially appointed their new head coach, while the New York Jets are reportedly leaning towards selecting Aaron Glenn, the defensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, for their vacant head coaching position. This development raises questions about the potential hiring of Glenn by the New Orleans Saints, who were also considered strong candidates for Glenn. Meanwhile, former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy is pursuing an in-person interview with the Saints, following a recent interview with the Bears.

McCarthy, known for his success with the Cowboys, has a notable history with the Saints, having served as their offensive coordinator from 2000 to 2004. However, the Saints are currently facing delays in their interview schedule due to a winter storm, which has postponed all upcoming discussions. Glenn is still slated for a second interview with the Saints after previously interviewing virtually during the Lions' playoff run. However, he has emerged as a favorite for the Jets' head coaching job.

In addition to Glenn and McCarthy, several other candidates remain in contention for the Saints' head coach position, including Joe Brady from the Buffalo Bills, Anthony Weaver from the Miami Dolphins, Mike Kafka from the New York Giants, Kellen Moore from the Philadelphia Eagles, and Darren Rizzi, the interim coach for the Saints. Notably, both Brady and Moore are still active in the postseason, competing for a chance to reach Super Bowl LIX.

Ben Johnson is poised to take the helm as the head coach for the Chicago Bears, and he is actively forming his coaching staff. Notably, he is in talks to recruit Dennis Allen, the former head coach of the New Orleans Saints, as his defensive coordinator. Additionally, Johnson aims to bring Darren Rizzi, who previously served as the interim head coach for the Saints, on board as the special teams coordinator. Johnson has a history with Rizzi from their time together on the Miami Dolphins staff, further enhancing their collaborative potential.

Allen boasts a strong defensive background, having previously led the Saints to two top-10 finishes in yards allowed during his tenure as defensive coordinator. His experience as a play caller spans nearly a decade, contributing to a defensive unit that excelled under his direction. Meanwhile, Rizzi's experience as a special teams coordinator adds valuable depth to Johnson's plans. Together, these coaching moves signal a strategic shift for the Bears as they seek to revitalize their performance.