The Denver Broncos' offseason began with a significant change at the top of the offensive staff. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Head Coach Sean Payton fired Offensive Coordinator Joe Lombardi after three seasons with the franchise.
The decision came just 48 hours after the Broncos' 10-7 loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, a contest where the offense managed only 227 total yards and a single touchdown. Lombardi, whom Payton brought with him from the New Orleans Saints when he took the Denver job in 2023, oversaw an offense that showed flashes but ultimately struggled with consistency, particularly in the biggest games.
"These decisions are never easy, especially with someone you have a long history with," Payton said in a statement released by the team. "We felt that in order to take the next step as a team, a new direction and voice for our offense was necessary. We thank Joe for his dedication and hard work over the last three years and wish him the best."
Lombardi's tenure was marked by the high-profile acquisition and subsequent release of quarterback Russell Wilson, followed by the drafting of Bo Nix in 2024. The 2025 season saw improvement, with the unit finishing 12th in scoring, but the playoff run highlighted its limitations. With backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham starting the championship game due to injury, the play-calling was conservative, generating just 11 first downs.
The search for a new offensive coordinator begins immediately and will be Payton's most critical hire of the offseason. Speculation will center on whether Payton, a renowned offensive mind, will take a more hands-on role with play-calling or seek an external candidate to install a new system. The hire will be pivotal for the development of quarterback Bo Nix as he enters his third season and for maximizing weapons like wide receiver Courtland Sutton. This move signals that despite a 15-4 season, Payton believes a championship-caliber offense requires a new architect.