Report: Broncos wanted DeMeco Ryans, settled for Sean Payton, others deny

The Denver Broncos will trade with the New Orleans Saints to acquire Sean Payton as the team’s next head coach.

But, he wasn’t their first choice. At least not according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Rapoport is reporting Denver made one last play at San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans before he accepted the Houston Texans job. Rapoport also laid out the timeline of the Broncos’ coaching search, with their pursuit of Jim Harbaugh. It’s an absolutely wild ride.

The #Broncos last few weeks:
— Zeroed in on DeMeco Ryans.
— Secretly tried to lure Jim Harbaugh from Michigan.
— Negotiated a Sean Payton deal.
— Tried to hire Ryans again.
— Finalized the hire of Payton as their new coach. https://t.co/tlMLnjdM9u

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 31, 2023

That’s a lot to track, but if Rapoport is to be believed, he’s saying Denver wanted Ryans more than Payton, and ultimately settled for the former Super Bowl-winning head coach.

Regardless of this news, Broncos fans should be thrilled. Payton boasts a resume that the likes of Nathaniel Hackett, Vic Fangio and Vance Joseph never possessed. He also has way more experience than Ryans, who would’ve been yet another first-time head coach.

Broncos CEO Greg Penner is sure to get asked about this at a press conference in the coming days, but until then, trading for Payton still feels like a major win.

(Update 3:33 p.m.) –

Both Mike Klis and Adam Schefter, who regularly appear on 104.3 The Fan, are denying Rapoport’s report.

Timing of today’s two hires was completely coincidental. Broncos were zeroed in on Sean Payton, and didn’t make any contact this week with DeMeco Ryans or his agent. Denver was focused on Payton, and Houston on Ryans.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 31, 2023

Clarifying: Broncos did NOT have contact with DeMeco Ryans or his rep since Sunday, per source. While Sean Payton, Jim Harbaugh, DeMeco Ryans were all at forefront of search at various points, focus turned to Sean Payton and Saints trade on Sunday, Monday and today. #9sports

— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) January 31, 2023

Rapoport has stood by what he’s saying, during multiple live hits on NFL Network.

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