Sean Payton is trying to build a better team with the Denver Broncos. After a supremely disappointing 2022, they are looking to bounce back stronger. With that in mind, Payton is trying to get the best possible coaches to guide the players. One of the names the Broncos targeted this year was Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. While Patricia was never hired for the DC job, Payton revealed that Patricia could still join his staff under a different title, per Dakota Randall.

“Sean Payton said Matt Patricia was “outstanding” in his interview with the Broncos. Also wouldn't rule out Patricia still working for Denver in some capacity next season”

The Broncos ended up hiring Vance Joseph as their new DC, edging out other candidates like Patricia and Rex Ryan. Still, it's still possible that Denver hires Patricia as a member of their coaching staff. Ian Rapoport floated the idea of Patricia as Payton's senior defensive consultant in Denver.

Article Continues Below
More Denver Broncos News
image thumbnail
2 Broncos underrated sleepers who could break out in 2025 NFL seasonDouglas Fritz ·
Broncos HC Sean Payton (center) with Broncos WR Marvin Mims and Broncos RB Jaleel McLaughlin behind him
3 Broncos veterans whose roles will be pushed by rookies in 2025Jaren Kawada ·
Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins (27) carries the ball against the Baltimore Ravens in the first half.
Broncos’ J.K. Dobbins reveals why he chose Denver in NFL free agencyJosh Davis ·
Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins (27) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.
Broncos poach J.K. Dobbins from Chargers with $5.25 million contractJaren Kawada ·
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) throws downfield during the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills in an AFC wild card game at Highmark Stadium.
Broncos’ Bo Nix sends confident message about learning Sean Payton’s offenseRichard Pereira ·
Broncos HC Sean Payton with Broncos RB RJ Harvey behind him
Rising Denver Broncos rookie turning heads in 2025 OTAsJaren Kawada ·

Patricia's reputation as a stellar candidate took a hit over the last few years. Between his disastrous tenure as the Lions head coach and last year's mess at offensive coordinator, Patriots fans have soured on him. However, this is still the same guy that was the architect of many great New England defenses. He might not do well when he's calling the shots, but perhaps an advisory role would be best suited for him.

The Broncos' defense was arguably the only bright spot of their awful 2022 season. Despite the offense crumbling around them, the defense did their best to keep them in games. There's a lot of talent on that lineup, and we'll have to watch and see if Joseph can bring out the best in them.