Even a deep playoff run isn’t always enough to keep a coaching staff intact. Just two days after falling short in the AFC Championship Game, the Denver Broncos have made a significant move, parting ways with offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi.
The timing is notable. Denver’s 10-7 loss to the New England Patriots was a grind-it-out affair, played in brutal conditions with heavy snow and swirling winds that grounded both offenses.
With rookie quarterback Bo Nix sidelined due to injury, the Broncos turned to backup Jarrett Stidham, and the results were underwhelming. Denver managed just 181 total yards and 11 first downs.
Yes, the weather played a role - but so did a game plan that never quite found its rhythm.
This wasn’t just about one game, though. In Sean Payton’s third season as head coach, the Broncos’ offense once again found itself stuck in the middle of the NFL pack. They finished 10th in total yards - respectable - but only 14th in scoring, a clear sign that yardage wasn’t translating into points consistently enough.
Lombardi, 54, has been one of Payton’s longtime lieutenants. The two go back to their days in New Orleans, where Lombardi served as quarterbacks coach from 2016 to 2020.
When Payton took the reins in Denver, it was no surprise that Lombardi followed. But after two seasons of uneven offensive results, it appears the Broncos are ready to chart a new course.
There’s no question this move signals a desire for more from an offense that has talent but hasn’t quite clicked. Whether it’s about unlocking Bo Nix’s potential, revamping the playbook, or simply injecting fresh ideas into the building, Denver is clearly looking for a different direction - even after coming within one game of the Super Bowl.
As for Lombardi, his résumé remains strong, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him land elsewhere quickly. He’s already been mentioned as a candidate for the Las Vegas Raiders' head coaching job, and with his experience and ties around the league, opportunities will likely follow.
But in Denver, the message is clear: Close isn't close enough. The Broncos are aiming higher, and that starts with a new voice leading the offense.