Joseph's Journey: From Coordinator to Head Coach Hopeful
The Competitive Landscape for NFL Head Coaches
The National Football League currently presents numerous vacancies for head coaching roles, with eight positions actively seeking new leadership. Amidst this competitive environment, Vance Joseph, the current defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, has emerged as a leading contender, reportedly being considered for at least six of these open roles.
Sean Payton's Philosophy on Coaching Advancements
Broncos head coach Sean Payton is widely recognized for his exceptional ability to assemble and cultivate a talented coaching staff. He is known for fostering an environment that encourages professional growth and never impedes his coaches when opportunities arise for them to advance their careers elsewhere. Payton's supportive stance extends to offering guidance and advice to his staff as they pursue promotional opportunities.
Payton's Resounding Endorsement of Joseph
Sean Payton has unequivocally championed Vance Joseph's suitability for a head coaching position. He frequently speaks about Joseph's undeniable presence and natural command, qualities Payton deems crucial for any team's leader. Furthermore, Payton highlights Joseph's exceptional interpersonal skills, noting his ability to build strong relationships across all departments within an organization. Payton firmly believes that Joseph's past head coaching experience, combined with his recent success and refined confidence, positions him perfectly for future leadership roles in the league. He views Joseph's eventual appointment as a head coach not as a question of 'if,' but 'when and where,' foreseeing widespread excitement among his colleagues when the time comes.
Joseph's Defensive Prowess and Impressive Track Record
Under Vance Joseph's strategic direction, the Broncos' defense has consistently demonstrated elite performance. Over the past two seasons, the unit has ranked third in points allowed, yielding an average of just 18.3 points per game. Additionally, Joseph's defense has led the NFL in sacks, achieving 63 in 2024 and an even more impressive 68 in 2025. These remarkable statistics underscore Joseph's expertise and effectiveness as a defensive coordinator, cementing his reputation as a highly respected figure within the league. Given his consistent success and strong leadership, it appears to be a foregone conclusion that Joseph will soon transition from his coordinator role in Denver to a head coaching position.