The Denver Broncos initiated a significant change to their coaching staff on January 27, 2026, dismissing offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and two other offensive assistants. This decision comes in the direct aftermath of the team’s 10-7 loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, a contest where the Broncos’ offense managed only a single touchdown.
Head coach Sean Payton, who calls the offensive plays, is now tasked with finding a new collaborator to helm the offensive meeting room. Reports indicate Payton has interest in former Carolina Panthers interim head coach and offensive coordinator Joe Brady for the vacant OC position. Brady, known for his work with quarterbacks and innovative passing concepts, could be granted play-calling responsibilities, a shift from the structure under Lombardi.
The move underscores the organization’s dissatisfaction with an offense that, while improved in 2025, sputtered at the most critical moment. With quarterback Bo Nix entrenched as the starter but coming off an injury, installing a new offensive system and philosophy will be a top priority this offseason. The firing signals that owner Greg Penner and the front office are holding the coaching staff to a high standard as they seek to build a championship-caliber team around their young quarterback.