On Sunday, during the Titans-Chiefs divisional round matchup, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that the Broncos would be parting ways with offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello
The #Broncos fired offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello, source said.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 12, 2020
This was a surprising move as it was widely reported towards the end of the season that Scangarello would get a second season and Vic Fangio even said, “I do,” when asked if he expected his coordinators to return. “All these guys will — we have a good staff. I’m sure some opportunities will come up for some guys. We’ll deal with those as they come.”
The Broncos’ head coach had a different tune on Sunday.
“After a lot of consideration and discussion after the season, I determined that a change at offensive coordinator ultimately would be best for our team,” Fangio said in an official statement. “We need to do everything we can to get better — in all areas — as we start working toward next year. Rich is a bright coach with a great future ahead of him. I appreciate all of his hard work and thank him for his contributions to the Broncos.”
It was also reported, first by NFL Network’s Ian Rapport, that former Giants head coach Pat Shurmur is a front-runner for the play calling job.
One strong candidate for the #Broncos vacant offensive coordinator job is Pat Shurmur, I’m told. He has plenty of interest around the league and would be a big-time hire for Vic Fangio. A rare veteran play-caller available, Shurmur would make sense for all parties.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 12, 2020
This report was confirmed by 9 News’ Mike Klis, who made the connection appear incredibly likely.
https://twitter.com/MikeKlis/status/1216489115564179456
Whoever the new offensive coach is for the Broncos, he’ll have to deal with the hurdle of installing a new scheme. It will be Denver’s fourth offensive coordinator and scheme in as many seasons, which is sure to take a toll on the young core.
