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As the NFL enters the critical coaching season following the end of the regular season, numerous franchises are on the lookout for fresh leadership. One name that has emerged prominently in coaching rumors is Denver Broncos' defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph. With reports indicating that both the New York Jets and Chicago Bears are showing interest, the question arises: could Vance Joseph be the next head coach in the league?
"Black Monday"—the dreaded day after the regular NFL season ends—often proves to be a tumultuous time for coaching staff across the league. Teams evaluate their performance and frequently make significant changes, especially at head coach positions. This year, we have already seen several teams take action, including the firing of coaches by the Jets, Bears, and other franchises. In stark contrast, the Broncos seem to be solidifying their foundation under head coach Sean Payton, primarily due to the team's newfound defensive strength.
Vance Joseph's journey with the Broncos has been anything but straightforward. His initial stint as head coach from 2017 to 2018 was marked by struggles, resulting in an 11-21 record. However, his return to the organization as a defensive coordinator has showcased his ability to coach and develop talent effectively. This season, despite starting with a defense that seemed to lack star power aside from All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain II, Joseph managed to turn the team into one of the most dominant defenses in the NFL. The Broncos led the league in sacks and displayed remarkable resilience throughout the season.
Recent reports highlight that both the Jets and Bears consider Joseph a strong candidate for their head coaching vacancies. The Bears, in particular, are actively seeking a leader who possesses the ability to connect with players and instill a winning mentality. Joseph fits this description well, aided by the impressive turnaround of the Broncos' defense this past season. Additionally, the NFL has instituted rules that encourage diversity in hiring practices, mandating that teams interview two minority candidates when seeking a new head coach. Should Joseph secure a head coaching position, it could also benefit the Broncos organization with compensatory draft picks.
As the coaching carousel continues to spin, the interest from teams like the Jets and Bears underscores the potential and talent that Vance Joseph has demonstrated as a defensive coach. Teams are now tasked with the challenging decisions of selecting the right leader to navigate their franchises towards success. Joseph’s previous head coaching experience combined with his recent defensive achievements positions him as a candidate worth serious consideration.
For the Denver Broncos, if Joseph does depart for a head coaching role elsewhere, many speculate that the team could promote in-house candidate Jim Leonhard, who has worked as the Defensive Backs coach, to fill the vacant coordinator position. This transition could maintain continuity within the organization while still allowing fresh ideas to flourish.
In conclusion, with Vance Joseph's proven capabilities and the undeniable success of the Broncos' defense, the wave of interest from both the Jets and Bears speaks volumes about his coaching prowess. As the NFL coaching landscape continues to shift, Joseph’s name will undoubtedly remain a focal point. Will he secure a new head coaching position? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Vance Joseph is a name to watch during this critical hiring cycle.
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