The Denver Broncos are on the verge of making an intriguing addition to their coaching staff. Reports suggest that the team is in talks with former Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer, and both parties appear keen on the collaboration.
Zimmer's connection with Broncos head coach Sean Payton runs deep, and it's evident Payton is looking to bolster his staff with a seasoned name. Zimmer is expected to take on a senior coaching role, focusing on the defensive strategy.
Zimmer led the Vikings from 2014 to 2021, guiding them to the playoffs three times and reaching the NFC Championship Game in 2017. His tenure ended with a solid record of 72-56-1. During that period, he worked alongside current Broncos general manager George Paton.
After a brief return to the NFL in 2024 as the Dallas Cowboys' defensive coordinator-a role he previously held from 2000 to 2006-Zimmer took a step back from the league last year.
Zimmer's coaching journey began in 1979 at Missouri, eventually leading to his first NFL role with the Cowboys in 1994. Over the years, he's established himself as a respected defensive strategist, earning the admiration of offensive mastermind Sean Payton.
This offseason, the Broncos lost Jim Leonhard to the Buffalo Bills, a move that left a gap in their defensive coaching lineup. Leonhard was a potential successor to Vance Joseph, should Joseph have landed a head coaching position. However, with Joseph staying put, Leonhard became a prime target for other teams.
As Payton seeks to reinforce his defensive staff, Zimmer, who turns 70 in June, remains a formidable presence in the game. His expertise could be a significant asset to the Broncos, and fans are eager to see if the two sides can finalize an agreement.