The Denver Broncos have found their next head coach in former Patriots’ offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
Bowlen’s instincts aside, McDaniels was a surprising choice for several reasons. First, his youthful appearance. Not only is he 32, but at 5 feet 10 inches tall and 160 pounds, the clean-shaven McDaniels appears much younger.
Another reason to question the decision to hire McDaniels is it seemed the Broncos already had the same kind of coach in Jeremy Bates. Like McDaniels, Bates is 32. Like McDaniels, Bates called the offensive plays during the 2008 season.
Unlike McDaniels, Bates was publicly endorsed by Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler after Shanahan was fired. Bates and McDaniels have become acquainted in recent years during the NFL scouting combines in Indianapolis. Bates is one of six Broncos coaches held over from Shanahan’s staff who will interview with McDaniels, but the new coach will have the final say on whom to retain.
Another reason McDaniels was a surprise: He comes from a Belichick-led Patriots team that has excelled with a 3-4 defense. The Broncos have built their personnel around a 4-3 system, but after the team’s disastrous performances the past two seasons, this would be the time to make the conversion to the 3-4. Longtime defensive coordinator Dom Capers, who is currently with the Patriots, and former Broncos defensive coordinator Mike Nolan will receive strong consideration to become the Broncos’ new defensive boss.
McDaniels might be inexperienced and lack height (and really, who cares about his height at the end of the day?), but if he can coach than he’s a great fit. He’s obvious very knowledgeable because his offenses in New England were practically unstoppable at times and he was groomed by Bill Belichick. The key is that he comes from a winning organization; whether he can turn the Broncos into a winner again remains unseen, but let’s give him a chance. Perhaps his most vital move is finding a solid defensive coordinator because the Broncos were a mess on that side of the ball last year.
