The Denver Broncos have made a significant change in their coaching staff, parting ways with special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica. Head coach Sean Payton announced the decision following a season marked by both standout performances and crucial errors on special teams. Despite leading the league in punt return averages at 15.7 yards per return, the Broncos faced pivotal miscues in key AFC West matchups, prompting the coaching shift.
Kotwica, an Army veteran with a distinguished military background, has been a stalwart in NFL coaching for 17 seasons. His tenure with the Broncos saw mixed results, highlighted by a league-leading punt return average but marred by costly mistakes in crucial games. The first of these errors occurred during a narrow loss to the Kansas City Chiefs when a blocked field goal attempt as time expired secured a 16-14 victory for the Chiefs. Another critical error was a fair-catch interference by Tremon Smith against the Los Angeles Chargers, setting up a successful 57-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker just before halftime.
Despite these setbacks, Kotwica's special teams unit showed resilience and skill throughout the season. Broncos kicker Wil Lutz tied Jason Elam's franchise record for single-season field goals, successfully completing 31 field goals. Lutz's performance improved significantly after a mid-season formation change, making 41 of his final 42 field-goal and extra-point attempts. This strategic adjustment involved flipping Alex Forsyth and reserve tackle Matt Peart in the formation.
Kotwica's departure marks the end of his collaboration with Sean Payton, which began during their time with the New York Jets. His extensive experience and military background, having flown helicopters in Iraq, Bosnia, and Korea, have earned him respect across the league. As the Broncos look to address their special teams issues, special teams assistant Chris Banjo remains on staff to provide continuity.
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