Zach Azzanni is poised to join the Las Vegas Raiders as their next wide receivers coach, adding another chapter to his extensive coaching career. With 27 years under his belt, primarily focused on wide receivers, Azzanni brings a wealth of experience to the Silver and Black.
Azzanni's journey began at the college level, spending 18 years climbing the ranks before making his NFL debut in 2017. His early coaching days saw him at Valparaiso, Bowling Green, and Central Michigan, where he worked alongside future NFL stars like Antonio Brown and J.J. Watt.
His college tenure included a stint at Florida, where he reunited with Urban Meyer and helped develop an offense that sent multiple players to the NFL. Azzanni's knack for fostering talent continued at Western Kentucky and Wisconsin, where he contributed to the development of several NFL-bound players.
In 2013, Azzanni joined the University of Tennessee, where he made a significant impact as a wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator. His efforts helped launch the careers of notable NFL talents such as Alvin Kamara and Jauan Jennings.
Azzanni's transition to the NFL began with the Chicago Bears in 2017, followed by a productive five-year run with the Denver Broncos. There, he helped revive Emmanuel Sanders' career and developed Courtland Sutton into a Pro Bowler. Despite the Broncos' quarterback challenges, Azzanni's coaching prowess shone through, developing players like Jerry Jeudy and Tim Patrick.
His NFL journey continued with the New York Jets, where he contributed to Garrett Wilson's development and worked with talents like Allen Lazard. Most recently, Azzanni served as the wide receivers coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers, working with promising players such as George Pickens and Calvin Austin III.
Azzanni's consistent ability to nurture talent makes him a valuable addition to the Raiders, especially as they look to bolster their young receiving corps. His familiarity with Klint Kubiak, from their time together in Denver, adds another layer of synergy to his new role. With a proven track record and a knack for developing wideouts, Azzanni is well-equipped to elevate the Raiders' receiving game.