The Denver Broncos are preparing to bolster their offensive coaching staff by hiring Ronald Curry as the new wide receivers coach, a move that reunites the veteran assistant with head coach Sean Payton. This appointment aims to strengthen the Broncos' wide receiver group and inject new energy into their passing attack after a season that fell short of organizational expectations.
Multiple reputable sources confirm the Broncos' impending hire of Curry for the role, which was made available following the dismissal of Keary Colbert late last month. Colbert had served two seasons as the Broncos' wide receivers coach before the team's decision to recalibrate their coaching lineup. Curry's hiring represents a return to familiarity, as he has an extensive, productive history working alongside Sean Payton.
Curry, 46, spent the 2025 NFL season as the quarterbacks coach for the Buffalo Bills, working closely with star quarterback Josh Allen. His coaching background is deeply rooted in his decade-long tenure with the New Orleans Saints, where Payton was head coach. Beginning his coaching journey in 2014 as an offensive assistant with the Saints, Curry climbed the ranks to become the wide receivers coach from 2019 through 2023.
During that tenure, Curry contributed to one of the most prolific offensive systems in recent NFL history. He was instrumental in nurturing talents like Michael Thomas and Alvin Kamara and was a key piece in maintaining the high standards of the Saints' passing game under Payton's leadership. Even after Payton's departure from New Orleans post-2021 season, Curry continued coaching under Dennis Allen for two more seasons, further refining his skills before joining the Bills.
The hiring aligns with Sean Payton's coaching philosophy that values trust, continuity, and a shared offensive language. Bringing Curry aboard minimizes transitional disruption since Curry already thoroughly understands the nuances of Payton's offense, from system terminology to practice routines to game-day adjustments. This cohesion is essential for the Broncos as they prepare to maximize their offseason program and make tangible progress in 2026.
The Broncos' receiving corps is a blend of established stars, burgeoning talent, and key developmental prospects. Courtland Sutton remains the centerpiece--known for his red-zone prowess and leadership. Meanwhile, 2024 first-round pick Troy Franklin is expected to continue evolving into a dynamic offensive weapon, building upon a rookie season that showcased his speed and potential. Marvin Mims Jr., a dangerous deep threat and return specialist, will look to refine his route-running and consistency under Curry's stewardship.
Additional contributors in the receiving room include Lil'Jordan Humphrey and Brandon Johnson, while Tim Patrick's future with the team remains uncertain due to recent injury battles. Curry's challenge will be to advance the receivers' precision in route running, their ability to create separation, and their overall understanding of the timing necessary in Payton's offense. His recent experience working directly with quarterbacks broadens his perspective, which should help foster increased synergy between the receivers and whatever quarterback emerges as Denver's starter for 2026.
On an organizational level, this hire signals a continued commitment by Sean Payton and General Manager George Paton to build a robust coaching infrastructure capable of player development and technical excellence. Curry's proven track record in New Orleans and his expanded quarterback-coaching experience in Buffalo position him as a highly qualified candidate to refine one of the Broncos' most critical positional groups.
For Curry, it's also a return to an environment and style of offense where he has deep familiarity, having grown professionally under Payton's tutelage. The wide receivers coach acts as a vital link translating the offensive scheme into effective on-field execution, a task that demands precise teaching, quick adjustments, and high football acumen.
While official confirmation from the Broncos is expected soon, the dual reports from trusted sources indicate this hire is imminent. Fans can expect Ronald Curry to rejoin the Broncos coaching staff with a mandate to elevate the receiving corps and contribute to reinvigorating Denver's offense. This strategic move by Sean Payton underscores the value of proven relationships and continuity in building a competitive team in today's NFL.
As the Broncos gear up for the 2026 season, Curry's return to the coaching fold should be seen as a significant step toward stabilizing and enhancing a key offensive unit. His blend of experience, knowledge, and shared vision with Payton equips Denver with a strong foundation to pursue sustained success in one of football's most challenging divisions.