The 2024 NFL head coaching cycle has seen three coaches earn second chances to lead teams, and Jim Harbaugh, Raheem Morris, and Dan Quinn have delivered solid results so far.
The Chargers, Falcons, and Commanders have a combined record of 20-12, and if the current standings hold, all three teams would make the playoffs at the end of the regular season.
The NFL often sees teams try to replicate the success of others, and this could mean more second opportunities for coaches in 2025. One such coach who could find himself in that conversation is Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.
Joseph was the head coach of the Broncos from 2017 to 2018, finishing with an 11-21 record. After his tenure in Denver, he served as the defensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals for four years.
Returning to Denver last season on Sean Payton’s staff, Joseph faced some early challenges but has since built one of the NFL’s top defenses.
This turnaround has sparked conversation about his potential future, especially from edge rusher Nik Bonitto, who has accumulated 17 sacks since Joseph’s return to the team.
When asked about the possibility of Joseph moving on to another opportunity, Bonitto shared his thoughts during an appearance on NFL Network.
“I would be pretty sad, but knowing that he can go out there and have more for himself would definitely make me happy,” Bonitto said.
“I know for a lot of guys too. Just knowing that he could have those types of opportunities and his name coming up in conversations like that, I would be really happy for him.”
The Jets and Saints, both of whom scored a combined 19 points in losses to the Broncos, have since fired their head coaches.
These teams, along with others that may have coaching vacancies, could take a closer look at Joseph if the Broncos defense continues to perform at a high level.
As the season progresses, Joseph’s name will likely continue to be a candidate for future head coaching opportunities.
