Broncos Overhaul Coaching Staff Amid Major Helmet Initiative

DENVER, Colo. — The Denver Broncos are navigating a significant coaching staff overhaul while simultaneously launching a groundbreaking initiative to distribute over 15,000 state-of-the-art Riddell Axiom smart helmets to high school football programs across Colorado.

Head coach Sean Payton is tasked with filling multiple vacancies on his staff, including the departures of pass-game coordinator John Morton and tight ends coach Declan Doyle, who were hired as offensive coordinators by the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears, respectively. The team also parted ways with inside linebackers coach Greg Manusky, leaving at least four positions to fill. Payton emphasized the importance of hiring the right people, stating, “It’s the product of winning.”

Despite the turnover, the Broncos retained secondary coach Jim Leonhard, a key figure in developing standout cornerback Riley Moss. Leonhard’s return provides stability to a defense that set a franchise record with 63 sacks in 2024. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, who interviewed for head coaching roles with the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets, is also expected to remain with the team.

Meanwhile, the Broncos announced a historic philanthropic effort to equip every high school tackle football program in Colorado with Riddell Axiom helmets. The initiative, described as the largest in Broncos history, includes 15,000 helmets, a four-year subscription to InSite Analytics, and Riddell Sideline Devices to monitor impact data. “It is hard to wrap your mind around an initiative that will have the kind of impact this one will have,” said Colorado High School Activities Association commissioner Mike Krueger.

The Broncos’ coaching staff changes and helmet initiative come as the team prepares for the 2025 NFL season, with Payton aiming to finalize his staff ahead of the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.