Sean Payton Addresses Broncos’ Bye Week Plans Amid Coordinator Departure Rumors
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton met with the media Thursday to outline the team’s plans for the bye week, but the conversation quickly turned to swirling rumors about the possible departure of his top coordinators. Despite being in just his first season with the Broncos, Payton’s leadership has already sparked significant change within the organization—and now, the future of his key staff members hangs in the balance.
“First and foremost, the bye week is about reflection and preparation,” Payton began, speaking with his usual measured tone. “We’ll use this time to evaluate what’s working, what’s not, and get some guys healthy. This stretch coming out of the bye is critical for us.”
Payton emphasized the importance of rest and self-scouting for the 3-6 Broncos, who have struggled to find consistent footing this season. But as much as the team needs to regroup, questions about the potential loss of Offensive Coordinator Joe Lombardi and Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph quickly shifted the narrative.
Reports surfaced earlier this week suggesting that both coordinators have drawn interest from other organizations. Lombardi, a longtime collaborator with Payton, is rumored to be a top candidate for a vacant head coaching position at his alma mater, the University of Michigan. Meanwhile, Joseph has reportedly been approached by multiple NFL teams interested in bringing him aboard as a defensive mastermind.
When asked about the speculation, Payton was candid but careful in his response. “It’s not unusual for good coaches to be sought after,” he said. “That’s a testament to their hard work and the respect they’ve earned in this league. If opportunities come up for them, we’ll have those conversations when the time is right. For now, the focus is on this team.”
Sources within the organization suggest that Payton may already be preparing for potential transitions. There are whispers that quarterbacks coach Davis Webb could take on a larger role if Lombardi departs, while linebackers coach Greg Manusky is rumored to be a candidate for a defensive promotion should Joseph move on. Payton, however, declined to comment on any contingency plans.
“We’re not getting ahead of ourselves,” he said. “The priority is maximizing what we’ve got here and now. These guys—Joe and Vance—are professionals. Their commitment to the Broncos hasn’t wavered, and I trust them completely.”
As the bye week unfolds, Broncos players seem unfazed by the rumors. Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson praised both coordinators during his media availability, calling them “critical voices in the locker room” and emphasizing the team’s focus on improvement.
Payton closed his session by reiterating that while outside noise is inevitable, the Broncos’ mission remains clear. “We’ve got work to do,” he said firmly. “Whether it’s adjustments on the field, in the film room, or in our mindset, this is a chance to get better. That’s what the bye week is for.”
While uncertainty looms over the future of Denver’s coaching staff, one thing is certain: Sean Payton is determined to keep the Broncos moving forward, no matter who’s calling the shots alongside him.
