As of yesterday, former Jacksonville Jaguars HC Jack Del Rio was signed to be our DC. Del Rio is a former 11-year NFL Linebacker who was a one time All-Pro and Pro-Bowler (1994). He has been a coach in some capacity since 1997.
Coaching Experience:
1997-1998: Strength and Conditioning Coach, Saints
1999-2001: Linebacker Coach, Ravens (Super Bowl 35 Champion)
2002: Defensive Coordinator, Panthers (with John Fox)
2003-2011: Head Coach, Jaguars (69-73 record including 1-2 in the postseason)
Overall, JDR has helped coach some potent defenses over the years. Let's examine his rankings as both a DC and HC. (Although he did help coach one of the greatest defenses in NFL history with the Ravens, I'm including only the years he was directly in charge of or in direct control of his teams' defensive philosophies)
Jack Del Rio Defensive Rankings, 2002-2011
| Year | Position | Team | YDS | Y/RANK | YDS/G | PASSING | RUSHING | P/G | PTS/RANK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | DC | PANTHERS | 4646 | 2 | 290.4 | 187.1 | 103.3 | 18.9 | 5 |
| 2003 | HC | JAGS | 4657 | 6 | 291.1 | 203.2 | 87.3 | 20.7 | 18 |
| 2004 | HC | JAGS | 5134 | 11 | 320.9 | 184.2 | 111.1 | 17.5 | 7 |
| 2005 | HC | JAGS | 4655 | 6 | 290.9 | 184.1 | 106.8 | 16.8 | 6 |
| 2006 | HC | JAGS | 4538 | 2 | 283.6 | 192.4 | 91.3 | 17.1 | 3 |
| 2007 | HC | JAGS | 5021 | 12 | 313.8 | 213.5 | 100.3 | 19.0 | 10 |
| 2008 | HC | JAGS | 5295 | 17 | 329.4 | 234.5 | 94.9 | 22.9 | 21 |
| 2009 | HC | JAGS | 5637 | 22 | 352.3 | 235.9 | 116.4 | 23.8 | 23 |
| 2010 | HC | JAGS | 5949 | 28 | 371.8 | 250.3 | 121.6 | 26.2 | 27 |
| 2011 | HC | JAGS | 5008 | 6 | 313.0 | 208.8 | 104.2 | 20.6 | 10 |
- As DC with John Fox's Carolina Panthers in 2002, Del Rio's defense ranked in the top 5 in both yards allowed (2nd) and points per game average (5th).
- In 10 seasons, his defenses have ranked in the top 10 in yards allowed five times, and have ranked in the top 10 in scoring average six times.
- In 5/10 seasons, his defenses have allowed an average of less than 20 PPG , with his defenses allowing under 20.7 PPG seven times.
- Overall his defenses against the run have played extremely well allowing less than a 105 YPG six times and under 100 YPG three times. Three times his defenses have allowed over 110 YPG rushing, which the Broncos have done every season for the last six years (more on that later).
- If we use 200 YPG Passing as our benchmark, his defenses have allowed over that mark six times, and under that mark four times. Only 3 times in his coaching career have his defenses allowed over a 213 YPG passing average.
-In his last year as HC, his defense ranked 6th in total yards allowed and 10th in points allowed. This defense was on the field quite a bit folks, defensively his team had a fantastic year.
Earlier, I alluded to the rankings of our Broncos Defense. Let's take a look at each of the different DC that we have had the last six years:
| Year | DC | YDS | Y/RANK | YDS/G | PASSING | RUSHING | P/G | PTS/RANK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | COYER | 5223 | 14 | 326.4 | 213.1 | 113.3 | 19.1 | T-8 |
| 2007 | BATES/SLOWIK* | 5376 | 19 | 336.0 | 193.4 | 142.6 | 25.6 | 27 |
| 2008 | SLOWIK | 5993 | 29 | 374.6 | 228.5 | 146.1 | 28.0 | 30 |
| 2009 | NOLAN | 5040 | 7 | 315.0 | 186.3 | 128.7 | 20.3 | T-12 |
| 2010 | WINK | 6253 | 32 | 390.8 | 236.3 | 154.6 | 29.4 | 32 |
| 2011 | ALLEN | 5725 | 20 | 357.8 | 231.5 | 126.3 | 24.4 | 23 |
*The 2007 Broncos media guide lists Jim Bates as Assistant Head Coach/Defense, and Bob Slowik as Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Backs Coach.
- Mike Nolan did the best job out of all of our former DC. He oversaw the biggest single season turnaround out of anyone else on that list. His defense had the highest ranking defense in yards (7) and the second highest ranking in points per game (T-12). While Nolan's defense was downright stingy in coverage, his defense did allow 128.7 YPG rushing.
- The second most successful coordinator the last six years was Larry Coyer.
- Dennis Allen helped the Broncos recover from being ranked dead last in both yards and points, to a more middle of the pack team.
- If you notice the last six years the Broncos defense has never held opposing offenses to under 110 YPG average rushing----in fact they have only allowed under 115 once. The Broncos defense has also allowed an average of less than 20 PPG once, and have ranked 23rd or higher in that category in four out of the six years.
What areas need improvement and how can Del Rio help us?
First and foremost, Del Rio is a former linebacker and launched his coaching career as a linebackers coach with the Baltimore Ravens. While Dennis Allen was a former DB coach before becoming our DC, our secondary with him at the helm was still a bit suspect allowing the second worse passing YPG average out of the last six DC. Look for Del Rio to have a larger impact on our linebacking corps, I expect there to be some new blood and improved play with him coming in, obviously this is an area that needs improvement, as does our secondary. Let's also expect our defense to make a better improvement in the running game, as that seems to be a hallmark of Del Rio coached defenses. In about 5/10 years as a coach, JDR's defenses have ranked in the the top ten in yards allowed and PPG average. Only once have his defenses allowed an average of more than 25 PPG, while in the last six years, the Broncos defense has done that three times. I think we can expect our defense to improve its overall physical play.
One season in particular stands out, and that was the last one JDR and Fox were together in the same capacity: 2002. That Panther defense was 2nd in yards and 5th and scoring, so let's hope that this combination can conjure some of that old chemistry.
Dennis Allen took us from last to the bottom of the second tier of defenses in the NFL. I think a realistic expectation is to see our defense move from the high 20's to top 15 in both yards and points. I also think a realistic expectation is to see our defense to allow between 110-118 YPG rushing.
Welcome to our family Mr. Del Rio, hope you succeed and hope you stay for a while! Go Broncos!!!
This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR
12 recs | 127 comments
People aren't giving enough credit to Mel Tucker for the Jags awesome defense last year
that guy IMO is the most underrated coordinator in the league right now.
That being said let’s hope Del Rio can continue his trend of good defenses.
AlbertaBronc - January 28, 2012
This is fair
It is also fair to say that historically, defenses under JDR have for the most part played pretty well.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
what is tucker doing this year?
brettden - January 28, 2012
If I'm not mistaken, he was the only coach that remained on staff
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
Yep he's currently listed as Jags DC and assit. HC
AlbertaBronc - January 28, 2012
This post is exactly what I was looking for this morning.
Notice that only under Nolan was our defense better than Jax over the last 6 years.
Thanks and rec’d!
SD guy - January 28, 2012
Nolan can't seem to stick anywhere
But the guy produces where ever he goes. It sucks that McD was responsible simultaneously for getting rid of our best DC and handing the keys over to Wink who was statistically worse than anyone else we’ve had the last six years.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
Hes like chemo...cleans house then leaves
boydy2669 - January 28, 2012
yep
if it wasn’t Del Rio, I would have wanted Nolan (except that I think he is a 3-4 guy). Some people just get it, and both of these guys get it.
brettden - January 28, 2012
We wouldnt have been able to get Nolan. He just went to the Falcons
Calikula - January 28, 2012
I hope we can keep him around for at least a few years.
MrFNSunshine - January 28, 2012
+1
Fabio Broncos - January 28, 2012
I agree
I think if we have Del Rio for 3 years, and we continue the positive personnel trend, we could be looking at a top 5 defense in a couple of years. I really think if we find the push the pocket guy this year, and Doom and Von move forward we will be right around top 10-12 in D (scoring, which is really what matters most) this year. Really exciting!
brettden - January 28, 2012
Exactly spot on!
We need a huge push up the middle BAD! It will be more what impact players JDR can get that makes him a success or a failure. If you look at the Coordinators who succeed you always see three or four top notch Pro-bowlers in the group. I really think that without those types of players every coach will fail. How Xander’s does his job can make or break JDR.
metalman5050 - January 28, 2012
We had some
I watched the Pro Bowl yesterday and I believe we had 4 pro bowlers on defense. I know Dawkins was an add on, but all 4 of them played a lot and did well. I know I know it is the Pro Bowl, but when the AFC got sick of the onsides and fake punts their D came up and shut out the NFC in the fourth. Miller two sacks, and pressure, Dawk and Champ had some great plays in the secondary. Doom put the pressure on also. And correct me if I am wrong but did I see Willis McGahee playin saftey there at the end with Antonio Brown at corner?
JREDbroncofan - January 30, 2012
Why? 4 of his last 5 years JDR has not been in the top third of NFL defenses.
Boiler etc - January 28, 2012
Unscientific of course
Not sure if it is science, and certainly I don’t analyze NFL defenses for a living. But look at the numbers in Jax, was that Del Rio, or other coaches? He did it in Bmore, he did it in Carolina (laid the groundwork for their superbowl season defense) and I expect he will be able to do it here.
Success doesn’t follow follks in the NFL by accident, at least I don’t think it does. However, in some cases failure can be thrust upon you. I don’t know the circumstances of all of the JAX teams, but the fact of the matter is in a nine year period he had 2/3 bad defensive years as a team (which those “bad years” there would have been celebrated here).
Fox went 2-14 last year in Carolina, but he looked pretty competent to me front start to finish this season. Just my thought, time will tell for sure though.
brettden - January 28, 2012
Yes, I agree that I was NOT happy with the hire of Fox when it happened, but
after researching and writing the series that I did on our coaching staff, I then understood why John Elway hired him. It is an accumulation of experience that makes him good for the job, but it is more on what I hear from the players that convinced me that this is a good deal that we have going.
NOW, we just need some very good, NO, excellent drafts and acquisitions over the next two years to give us the talent we need to teach the ropes to.
metalman5050 - January 30, 2012
Point is
Teams he’s been associated with and had heavy involvement have frequently experienced significant success on defense. While scheme helps the players also factor.
Scheme, talent and motivation are the three keys in my opinion. Have all 3 and you’re great. Two of three and you can be very good. Statistics help but what were the other factors during the “down” years. Also, Boiler, who else available and willing out there has a better resume than Jack? Not sarcasm. Just a serious question.
KansasBronco - January 28, 2012 via mobile
I've also read . . .
on here from some that “he only had a good D in 2011 because he had big FA signings.” Seriously? That logic is laughable. That’s similar to saying Phil Jackson only won championships because he had great players. You know, Belichick’s only a good coach because he had Brady.
eye roll.As an aside to that, one of the more interesting things I’ve come across perusing NFL history is that Bill Parcells, who is seen as a genius, is/was a sub .500 coach with no playoff wins. ZERO, without Belichick’s on staff. I can’t stand Parcells so I spent some time looking for holes and came up with that doozy.
KansasBronco - January 28, 2012 via mobile
the reality is that in 2011
the changes on the Jags D were:
1. del Rio actually handed over game day DC duties to Mel Tucker. Before that, del Rio had actually been the game day DC in 2008, 2009, 2010.
2. the Jags signed MLB Paul Posluszny, OLB Clint Session, and SS Dawan Landry to big contracts.
3. Had Aaron Kampman come back from an ACL tear. Had Alualu in his second year
These are big changes. And giving JDR credit for D when he actually handed D responsibilities over to someone else is silly.
yibberat - January 28, 2012
So do we gie Belichick credit
for his offense in 08’ or does that go to McD? Do we give credit for the Bronco D in 09’ to Nolan or McD? I think the credit argument can be legitimate either way (coach or coordinator).
My opinion is Del Rio has a fine resume, and short of getting a guy like Nolan, or possibly keeping Allen JDR is a great hire for us and I expect he will do a fine job.
brettden - January 28, 2012
You're whole agrument is silly lol.
tiderfootball09 - January 28, 2012
From the Jaguar SBNation blog:
“The question is however, was the upswing in defense due to Mel Tucker finally calling the defense, or was it the influx of 5-6 new starters/contributors on the defense? The Jaguars added Paul Posluszny, Clint Session, Dawan Landry, Dwight Lowery, Matt Roth, and Drew Coleman in the offseason.”
Even they can’t tell if it was Tucker or retooling the roster.
KansasBronco - January 28, 2012 via mobile
What part of that attributes it to del Rio?
yibberat - January 28, 2012
Why are you fighting this so hard
yibberat?
I think it may be just because you like arguing and you really don’t hate the hire at all.
Digger24 - January 29, 2012
I'm not a fan of the hire
I don’t get how the way forward for the Broncos is to go back in time and become the Carolina Panthers.
yibberat - January 29, 2012
Fair enough.
I thought you were just fighting to fight.
Digger24 - January 29, 2012
I'm with yibberat on this one.
Most of our personnel is now from the Panters or Jags. Ouch. Is there anything ‘elete’ about either of those organizations? Whether now or a couple years ago? Not hardly
.
Sorry about this being such a sweeping comment but some semblance of objectivity might be needed.
The kool aid on the Del Rio hire…..has been heavily spiked.
Boiler etc - January 30, 2012
its "elite"
and how successful where we with all of McD’s homies from the Pats? Broncos fans have such short memories. Just 2 seasons ago we were the 2nd worst team in the NFL. Fox and his crew came in and did a fantastic job of turning things around and he kept a lot of the staff from the previous regime. I dont see where all this complaining is coming from. I would venture on to say that most of the guys on MHR thought Foxy was brought in to right the ship, which he has. Can we at least agree that after taking the 2nd worst team in the NFL, taking a 1-4 start and turning into our 1st playoff berth and 1st playoff win since 05, that he has at least earned next season?
Calikula - January 30, 2012
2.
2 would be a step forward.
oxmouth - January 28, 2012
Unless the Broncos just toally fall on their ass
I would guess that JDR will get a shot at head coach next year. If the offer/situation is right we could very well have 8 DCs in eight years. The good part of this is that I feel JDR and Fox will be working together a great deal. I am pleased we got him, even if it isonly for one year.
firstfan - January 28, 2012
you really think he will get another job that soon?
Mike Agnew - January 29, 2012 via mobile
I'm surprised he's not in Tampa...
JALefor - January 30, 2012
Really disagree on this,
in that I think JDR is would not even accept a job offer. Why? Forget most of the talk about having worked already with Fox. Yes, it is nice to know you are not going to hate your boss, but …..1) He could have sat out this year and gotten the same money. Why even take a job at all? Because…. 2) he wants his family to be in one place for enough time for his kid to get through at least HS, especially his QB son. Denver fit family needs, and he wanted to know where he was going to move THIS year, not next year when his son would have to change schools. Money played no role in his decision (apparently), so why else do this?
I strongly believe JDR is hoping to stay in one place for 3-5 years. He will if we don’t stink on D.
idahobronc - January 30, 2012
Well two at least.
I think his son is going to be a Junior. Anybody know which HS he might go to? Maybe they won’t even move to Denver.
Another point on the money thing is we could’ve easily said hey, we will pay you 900,000/yr, but this year it will be 400,000 and next year 1.4 mil. I don’t know the contract, I’m just saying that’s probably something we did as a gentleman’s agreement kind of thing. It doesn’t effect his pay this year at all. He gets what we pay and Jax picks up the rest up to his 5 mil contract.
Digger24 - January 31, 2012
Thank you for bringing this stuff, Mike
Great job you had here!
I just loved the sign… we ended upgrading our DC spot after all =)
Fabio Broncos - January 28, 2012
I think so
The truth of the situation is that Allen seemed so great because of how lousy we were the previous year. I’m not taking anything away from the guy, we did improve. But we were still not where we need to be, hopefully JDR can take us to a new level.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
That Elway sure knows what he's doing!
Denver is on the verge of something very special. I can’t wait for September.
MileHighPride - January 28, 2012
Outstanding job Mike and thanks for the info...
One thing is real noticable was that after the defense ranked 2 in 2006 there was a steady decline all the way up until 2010. Whether that was a lack in preparing for the future or depth when the injury bug it I’m not sure, but his defenses steadily climbed and then starting sliding down.
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
I noticed that as well
I’m not a Jags expert, but it would be nice to know if there were some aging players that were gradually replaced over that time period. Just thinking of some of the players they took, first they traded for Kirk Morrison in the same draft they took Tyson Alualu. So LB and DT were addressed. Whatever the case their defense played extremely well last year which is something Alberta pointed out about Mel Tucker.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
The jags
for the last few years werent spending much as the owner was prepping to sell. The last two years in particular Del Rio was left with a pretty bare cupboard and it was obvious that ownership wasn’t “all-in” on fielding the best team possible. I think he saw the writing on the wall and the entire team was pretty much waiting for whatever came next.
coloradoSportsguy - January 28, 2012
2007 was the last season Mike Smith was DC
Smith was hired by Falcons to be their Head Coach. JDR made good hires of DC’s in Gregg Williams (2008)) and Mel Tucker (2009-now) but JDR was the game day DC in 2008, 2009, 2010.
yibberat - January 28, 2012
Great post. Had to put this bad boy on the front page.
Glad to see Del Rio was the hire….its about time the Broncos hire some big names!
Tim Lynch - January 28, 2012
Thanks Tim, I appreciate it!
I didn’t know what to think until I did some digging, and now I think it will end up to be a very good move. The goal for EFX now, assuming that JDR is successful, is to keep him at the position for a few years. I truly believe that the fact he’s #7 DC in 7 years has made it harder for people to let go of Allen. Some stability please?
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
I think we'll have him for at least 2 if not 3 years
Teams will be gun shy to hire him again as a head coach for a few years.
ElwayFanJ - January 28, 2012
If he's successful this year
I wouldn’t mind EFX giving him the “title” of Assistant HC—-just as more incentive to keep him around. The title means nothing anyway, Jim Bates was Assistant HC under Shanahan for example.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
If Del Rio does an amazing job next year, he's going to be hired somewhere.
I hope he does an amazing job, even if it means an 8th DC in 8 years.
Tim Lynch - January 28, 2012
I don't think so
His tenure in JAX did not lead to many pots of gold at the end of any of his seasons. I think even if we have a great D he will get passed over for 1st time guys. Maybe that changes if guys like Schiano and Allen flop in year 1, but seems like the vouge trend is to find the next great one.
Or maybe just wishful thinking by me. At some point can a group of coahces just get together and say hey let’s put in some time together and win something? The carosel of coaches is starting to get more annoying that player jumping.
brettden - January 28, 2012
or "coaches"
brettden - January 28, 2012
To me
the best part of the Del Rio hire is he’s a former LB. He knows where our weakest position is. Not that Fox didn’t.
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
Do you think Zach Brown could play MLB in a 4-3?
He’s got the speed to be a difference maker and has looked good at the Senior Bowl practices. A linebacker core of D.J. Williams, Zach Brown, and Von Miller would be pretty good.
ElwayFanJ - January 28, 2012
We are definitely going to upgrade here
The question is do we do it through the draft early on or through FA. I’ve heard that Zach Brown has been doing great this week.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
I think unless we get Kuechy, Hightower or Burfict
we should move DJ to MLB. I know he doesn’t want to, but we pay him big time money he should step up and make big time plays. Side note I like Brown a lot. FedX does too I think.
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
I'd rather go hard after Dan Connor and keep DJ at his natural spot.
Also that would allow EFX to focus on other needs in the draft. Though I would not be oppossed to drafting Brown. Both guys—Connor or Brown—would be upgrades.
tiderfootball09 - January 28, 2012
I hope Conner is available yet for us to talk to come March.
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
Who knows, hard to say if any of those guys will be there when we pick
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
C'mon man.
Nobody on the FedX pun?
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
Went right over my head
I hated ups when I worked for fed ex so Im not sure were you’re going with this digger
Calikula - January 28, 2012
:)
Fox
elway
del rio
Xanders
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
hahahaha got it
Calikula - January 28, 2012
EFL...Zack Brown is a WOLB and too light for the Mike.
The kid has blazing speed for his 230+ and has coverage skills. If EFX draft him at 25 I wouldn’t be to hurt over it, especially if they make a draft day trade with DJ Williams for a player and pick or just picks. DJ is due $5 mil this season and will be 30 years old. I would think they would re-sign Wesley Woodyard and let he and Brown compete for the position.
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
I'd love to see Woody back and DJ traded for value
Woody is as good as DJ, and DJ’s stock will never be higher
si_ice - January 28, 2012
Agree
firstfan - January 28, 2012
disagree
BroncoMath101 - January 29, 2012
Disagree
tiderfootball09 - January 29, 2012
DJ>Woody
Digger24 - January 29, 2012
Problem with this guys is more speed outside
but we are still thin inside. If this happens, and we don’t get much better at MLB, count on opposing offenses finding a way to isolate our MLB all the time. But if Brown runs like most think he will, he will be gone by our pick anyway, problem solved. I want Vontaze, he is crazy and mean – and we need to be crazy and mean on D.
brettden - January 28, 2012
Vontaze is crazy and mean
you forgot to mention he is stupid and never wraps up on a tackle!
kimo526 - January 30, 2012
Zach Brown = 4-3 LB
Zach Brown isn’t a 3-4 rush LB. He’s not a pass-rusher.
JuiceIsLoose - January 28, 2012
IDK
who you’re replying to, but from what I read nobody said Brown was a 3-4 rush LB. Unless you’re answering bfree’s comment saying WOLB. We all think of him as a Will I believe. ExceptEFJ was asking if he could play Mike.
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
4/3 Will to take DJ's position...
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
I love the hire and I bet our defensive guys do too
Hopefully he can talk EFX into drafting a dominant young DT.
ElwayFanJ - January 28, 2012
or talk mario williams
into putting on an orange jersey. Adding him and a vet safety to replace dawk would make for a defense that gives me the chills thinking of the possibilities.
coloradoSportsguy - January 28, 2012
derrick harvey
will be reunited with his old head coach and strength coach. maybe they’ll be able to find the first round talent in him they thought he had. also ayers was coached by del rio in the senior bowl and was the defensive player of the game.
e_saites - January 28, 2012 via Android app
Good note on the connection between Ayers and Rio.
tiderfootball09 - January 28, 2012
maybe del rio knew how to use him more effectively.
hopefully we see more from ayers next season
e_saites - January 28, 2012 via Android app
If we re-sign him.
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
They couldn't while he was in Jax, doubt they will here. I think and hope Harvey will be gone after this offseason.
BroncoMath101 - January 28, 2012
yes key word maybe
its doubtful but maybe
e_saites - January 28, 2012 via Android app
He will be back
because we will offer him as much as anyone else will, and he has made enough hay here to stay on the roster all season. That is unless him and JDR have issues.
brettden - January 28, 2012
Coach Fox must of conferred with Del Rio when they acquired Harvey, but he hasn't shown much since he was drafted #8.
He sure as heck didn’t show us much this year when he got the chance. EFX may re-sign him for camp, but if he has a great TC then they may move forward with him. One thing is that Harvey got a huge chunk of money for being selected #8 so if he hasn’t spent it all , he should have money.
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
Think he bought a Bentley?
brettden - January 28, 2012
he also coached vickerson
Mike Agnew - January 29, 2012 via mobile
when?
Digger24 - January 29, 2012
They had 3 years with Derrick Harvey...there was a reason they let him go with no compensation
broncofaninIL - January 29, 2012
You saying Harvey is one guy
who’s not so happy with the Del Rio hiring.
Digger24 - January 29, 2012
Tackling
Have a feeling there is going to be more tackling tech taught in training camp this year, along with more two a days and wind sprints
Baghdad - January 28, 2012
Two a days are limited because of the new CBA
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
Great hire it’s good to have another experienced coach on the team as we rebuild the defense
always broncs - January 28, 2012 via mobile
I didn't realize he was only DC for one year...
..not sure I get the love as he isn’t a proven DC (only 1 year) and only LB coach for 3 years. But I’m not against it either.
bonaire - January 28, 2012
Yes, but his only year of DC was with Fox at Carolina so the connection was there taking a 1-15 team to 9-7 that year.
Looking at Jack’s overall performance at Jacksonville, one can’t lay all the blame on him. His GM (Gene Smith) should carry a lot of the blame for some of their selections in the draft and player acquisitions, along with a chinsy ownerwho couldn’t draw a crowd with attendance down. I’m still puzzled at their 2006 season where both the offense and defense ranked in the top 10 (offense 10 and defense 4) and only recorded 8 wins? Just by looking at that you would think that they were a 12-4 or at least a 11-5 team. I don’t don’t know what went wrong there unless their special teams was terrible…
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
He was defacto DC in JAX too though
Not sure I care what anyone else thinks, defensive guy as head coach, he is going to have his hand on the D to some extent.
brettden - January 28, 2012
Well if he was the defacto DC in Jax.........
…then isn’t Fox the defacto DC here? If so, no reason to pay a premium for a DC…especially one that will surely be strong willed and want to be calling the shots as DC. Just seems that if you are going to use that logic, then you have to apply it to both situations.
bonaire - January 28, 2012
I think he may be
but by bringing him here it seems clear they must have gotten along very well in Carolina. Don’t know b/c I have never been on an NFL coaching staff, but my thought is a guy like Fox, with his experience and background, the D is going to do what he wants. But hte HC does not have the time to commit to practice and game management, thus hire a guy you trust to do what you want, without you actually doing it. I think that is how Belickick, and many other HCs operate. Maybe not, but that is what I think.
brettden - January 28, 2012
I imagine its more about philosophy than it is actually having a hand in it.
Fox let DA call the shots but he made sure he hired a guy with the same defensive philosophy. I imagine he’ll let Del Rio call the plays and shots on defense but would have made sure that Del Rio had the same defensive philosophy before hiring him.
BroncoMath101 - January 29, 2012
His coaching tree isn't as extensive as you might think.
Basically he’s worked under HC’s Mike Ditka (Saints), Brian Billick (Ravens), and John Fox (Panthers/Broncos).
Mike Smith was an assistant under him that became a head coach, and two others have become head coaches in college. Other than that, for nine years in JAX, he really didn’t turn out folks that went on to succeed in other places.
If we hired him as HC I’d be worried, but as a coordinator, I think he’ll do just fine.
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
Jax was small market
and cheap owner. He did fine with what he had in what has been a tough division for a lot of years. Look at Bill Belichik, who I think will end his career as the most successful coach ever, and the results of his coaching tree. Not a lot of success there at all. In fact, most of his guys have failed horribly. If we are judging coaches by their family tree I would argue that Del Rio is more successful in that regard.
coloradoSportsguy - January 28, 2012
Mike Smith was also with JDR in Baltimore
Billick is the guy who really created that coaching tree. In their Super Bowl year, Ravens D coaches were:
Brian Billick – Head coach
Marvin Lewis – DC then- Bengals head coach now
Rex Ryan – DL coach then – Jets head coach now
Mike Smith – DL asst coach then – Falcons head coach now (was LB coach the year JDR was in Carolina and DC in Jax from 2003-2007)
Jack del Rio – LB coach then – DC in Carolina for a year – then Jags HC – Broncos DC now
Steve Shafer – DB coach then – worked with JDR in Jax – retired
yibberat - January 28, 2012
Not really impressed with JDR but thanks 4 the post.
It doesn’t much matter who they bring in under Fox as DC. If they don’t give him the proper tools (players) to work with through the draft he will fail regardless. I believe it’s more about the talent than it is the scheme.
metalman5050 - January 28, 2012
Most definitely Doug and it is ultimately up to Elway and Xanders to make sound decisions as they build...
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
True THAT my freind.
metalman5050 - January 28, 2012
This one should be front page more than the Del Rio hire.
Digger24 - January 28, 2012
GM Gene Smith made a couple of bad decisions in 2008 trying to in the pass rush pressure with selecting 2 DEs in the first 2 rds.
#8/1 Derrick Harvey and #52/2 Quinten Groves. In the 3 years for Harvey and 4 years for Groves both together they only amassed 10.5.
Then in 2010 big questions arose over the selection of DE/DT Tyson Alualu, Cal. at #10 of the first rd. Since most scouting analysis ranked him at #75. That’s a huge reach and definitely going after a player of NEED. Huge mistake, but some make it over as a good selection. I myself wouldn’t want a GM that carries that mentality, because drafting a player or players that high for need will eventually get you in trouble. Drafting the BPA and make sound decisions with the other picks builds a strong team all around. Here’ what GM Smith said about taking Alualu…
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
Gene Smith was NOT the GM in 2008.
Shack Harris made the call. Jack Del Rio and Gene Smith had a voice in the process between ‘03-’08, but Harris made that terrible draft in’08.
Alualu is a good player, made the all rookie team in ‘10! He played with a hurt knee all 16 games in ’11. If that knee will be healed, watch out! I have issues with Gene Smith’s picks, but the Jaguars DTs are fine
Zoltan from Budapest - January 28, 2012
BTW Gene Smith became the JaguarsGM after '08.
Zoltan from Budapest - January 28, 2012
Del Rio
I think he’d be a perfect coach, along with Fox, to rein in Burfict’s over-aggressiveness and really evolve him into the elite ’backer he can be.
Burfict reminds me so much of Ray Lewis! He plays with a lot of emotion and can be a leader of a defense. He should be our pick if available at #25. He fights off offensive linemen easily and doesn’t miss tackles. He’s a very quiet and shy person off the field so he doesnt have off the field issues, he just needs good coaching and we offer that to the kid.
Do y’all agree that Del Rio is a good fit?
JuiceIsLoose - January 28, 2012
Burfict
I viewed every game Burfict played and on the field he is a total jerk, has no self control, is easily baited and seldom if ever wraps up on a tackle (he is a big hit bump tackler) which never works in the NFL. His on field issues are legendary at ASU resulting in not only the loss of games but also the PAC 12 championship. Dennis Erickson is one of the most forgiving coaches and yet Burfict was such a distraction that in the final game of the season he only played a few plays and still managed to get a 15 yd. penalty which cost ASU the game and the PAC 12 championship game. You really want him on a Bronco team that has built awesome comraderie that makes all Bronco fans proud. In my opinion Vontaze Burfict would be a great fit with the Detroit Lions who are already led by an out of control jerk that was able to turned a great competitor and football player from Nebraska into a raving maniac.
kimo526 - January 30, 2012
That Suh guy was always that way, dating back to Nebraska
si_ice - January 30, 2012
Wow
Dink Martindale Stinks
T.Dot_Bronco - January 28, 2012
I'm happy with Del Rio
The only alarming sign is that before last year, his defense in JAX has been poor for 3 years, falling further down each year.
si_ice - January 28, 2012
Couple of notes for this part
Mel Tucker got the defensive playcalling duties in ’11 for then owner Wayne Weaver, because the owner wanted JDR to focus just on the head coaching duties. So Tucker should get a lot of credit for that,. It was not a coincidence, that he got the interim HC position after JDR was fired (also Jack was there until 11 games in ’11), and in the last 5 games the Jaguars D was REALLY banged up, and still managed to finish in the Top 6.
That being said I think Jack is fine choice for the D coordinator job, and I think he will have big success here with this very talented defense!
Zoltan from Budapest - January 28, 2012
Anyone think that
Dennis Allen may now call Richard Smith to be LB coach + something for the Raiders?
yibberat - January 28, 2012
yes already being mentioned, oh well ho hum
Bronco Mike - January 28, 2012
Richard Smith is already the LB coach+something 'from' the raiders maybe...
I don’t think that will happen…
bfree2bronc - January 28, 2012
Great article Mike. Nice read!
boydy2669 - January 28, 2012
Awesome
I’m excited about this addition. No need to look into the numbers of his previous spots as I believe that Elway is putting together this franchise together from top down. Quality coaches for what could be some future quality players. Lets face it, we have seen some mediocre defenses over the years and the credibility of DelRio is great for our beloved Broncos.
dcrespo7 - January 29, 2012
This is such a good hire for our team
Seeing how John Fox is still here + add in Del Rio? We won’t miss a beat… in fact, we’ll largely improve. Mark it dude!!! I think Dennis Allen is a good coach, but having Del Rio is like having a 2nd experienced HC on the staff. That can only spell good things, since Fox is not a walking egomaniac (Shanny, McD). We have two wise defensive minds on the staff now (not counting all the position coaches)… this is going to get interesting. AFC West… BEWARE!!!
PaleHorse78 - January 29, 2012
Hell yeah bro
rec’deded
Calikula - January 30, 2012
My concern is that Del Rio is likely one and done, so to speak
I think he will generally improve the Broncos D, hopefully we add some more pieces, but I fear he will be outta here after next season looking for a HC position, likely in college.
Broncoman - January 29, 2012
Does this portend a D draft. Maybe the first pick?
Hope they do not forget a QB and a speedy RB…..
Gulbrand - January 29, 2012
Assuming Del Rio had a large input into who the Jags drafted - here is his breakdown of players taken by position and round while the HC in Jax
69 total draft picks in 9 years as the HC
Position total %
DB 14 20%
DE 10 14%
DT 4 6%
OG 3 4%
LB 7 10%
P 1 1%
QB 2 3%
RB 8 12%
OT 6 9%
TE 3 4%
WR 10 14%
K 1 1%
here what the Jags did with their picks in rounds 1-3
Position total in 1-3 %
DB 4 19%
DE 3 14%
DT 2 10%
OG 2 10%
LB 2 10%
QB 2 10%
RB 2 10%
OT 2 10%
TE 1 5%
WR 1 5%
Let’s compare that to Fox’s draft history by position while as a HC
DB 21%
LB 14%
RB 10%
WR 10%
DE 10%
OT 10%
TE 10%
OG 5%
QB 5%
C 4%
DT 4%
and in the first 3 rounds
DB 21%
LB 18%
RB 12%
WR 12%
DE 9%
OT 15%
TE 3%
OG 0%
QB 3%
C 6%
DT 3%
Historically both guys like to get defensive players in rounds 1-3 so using our first two three picks on CB, LB, DT would not be unexpected.
DE_BroncoFan - January 30, 2012
Want to bet
that their first 3 picks are all D ? That would be logical and need based, something we would do.
Hint: don’t bet your house.
Boiler etc - January 30, 2012
Bad picks are picks intern based on need
Hopefully with each pick they draft the best available player that fits our system, and we will be alright
Trapped in O.C. - January 30, 2012 via Android app
I hope that they forget a QB totally!
metalman5050 - January 30, 2012
The three QBs drafted by Fox and Del Rio are
Byron Leftwich, Blaine Gabbert and Jimmy Claussen – all first rounders. Neither guys has used a late rounder on a developmental QB.
DE_BroncoFan - January 30, 2012
They can hang with drafting for the D as far as I'm concerned.
Other than the O-Line, i’m happy with letting the guys we have develop. I would like to see free agent help in the TE and RB area if there is a budget kind of guy there that can help.
metalman5050 - January 30, 2012
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