Posted on Jan 17

Sean Payton on firing Kotwica: "This isn't on one player... this is on all of us."

u/alex • 15h

The Denver Broncos have fired special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica as part of a reevaluation of their performance, particularly following critical mishaps during the season.

Why it matters: This decision underscores Sean Payton's commitment to accountability and performance improvement within the Broncos organization.

The firing comes just two days after an offseason evaluation discussion, indicating a swift response to perceived shortcomings.
Special teams play is often pivotal in close games, and addressing weaknesses in this area could lead to improved outcomes next season.

What’s new: Kotwica, who was hired by Payton last year alongside retired special teams consultant Mike Westhoff, faced scrutiny after significant miscues on special teams.

Under Kotwica, the Broncos excelled in certain aspects, leading the league with an average of 15.7 yards per punt return, thanks in large part to All-Pro returner Marvin Mims Jr.
However, key errors, such as a blocked field goal against the Kansas City Chiefs and a costly fair-catch interference penalty against the Los Angeles Chargers, marred their overall performance.

Yes, but: Despite the emphasis on these blunders, not all aspects of the special teams unit were detrimental.

Wil Lutz tied the franchise record for field goals in a single season with 31, showcasing the team's ability to score points from special teams.
The mixed results highlight the complexities of evaluating coaching performance, where some metrics demonstrate success while others reveal glaring deficiencies.

What to watch: As the Broncos move forward, the appointment of a new special teams coordinator will be critical to rebuilding confidence and effectiveness in that unit.

Payton's track record suggests he may prioritize candidates with experience or innovative strategies to enhance special teams contributions.
With other teams also making moves in the offseason, how the Broncos adapt could set the tone for their competitive strategy in 2024.

The bottom line: Sean Payton's decisive action reflects a desire to establish a culture of excellence and accountability within the franchise.

This move signals to players and fans alike that mediocrity won't be tolerated, and every aspect of gameplay—especially special teams—will be scrutinized for improvement.

Our thought bubble: While Kotwica's dismissal may seem abrupt, it serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved in NFL coaching positions, especially when performance does not meet expectations.

Payton's focus now shifts to finding a replacement who can build upon the successes achieved while eliminating the mistakes that cost them crucial games.

#wil-lutz #nfl

Sean Payton on firing Kotwica: "This isn't on one player... this is on all of us."

The Denver Broncos have fired special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica as part of a reevaluation of their performance, particularly following critical mishaps during the season.

Why it matters: This decision underscores Sean Payton's commitment to accountability and performance improvement within the Broncos organization.

The firing comes just two days after an offseason evaluation discussion, indicating a swift response to perceived shortcomings.

Special teams play is often pivotal in close games, and addressing weaknesses in this area could lead to improved outcomes next season.

What’s new: Kotwica, who was hired by Payton last year alongside retired special teams consultant Mike Westhoff, faced scrutiny after significant miscues on special teams.

Under Kotwica, the Broncos excelled in certain aspects, leading the league with an average of 15.7 yards per punt return, thanks in large part to All-Pro returner Marvin Mims Jr.

However, key errors, such as a blocked field goal against the Kansas City Chiefs and a costly fair-catch interference penalty against the Los Angeles Chargers, marred their overall performance.

Yes, but: Despite the emphasis on these blunders, not all aspects of the special teams unit were detrimental.

Wil Lutz tied the franchise record for field goals in a single season with 31, showcasing the team's ability to score points from special teams.

The mixed results highlight the complexities of evaluating coaching performance, where some metrics demonstrate success while others reveal glaring deficiencies.

What to watch: As the Broncos move forward, the appointment of a new special teams coordinator will be critical to rebuilding confidence and effectiveness in that unit.

Payton's track record suggests he may prioritize candidates with experience or innovative strategies to enhance special teams contributions.

With other teams also making moves in the offseason, how the Broncos adapt could set the tone for their competitive strategy in 2024.

The bottom line: Sean Payton's decisive action reflects a desire to establish a culture of excellence and accountability within the franchise.

This move signals to players and fans alike that mediocrity won't be tolerated, and every aspect of gameplay—especially special teams—will be scrutinized for improvement.

Payton's focus now shifts to finding a replacement who can build upon the successes achieved while eliminating the mistakes that cost them crucial games.