Sean Payton is no longer thought to be the outright favorite for the head coaching job in Denver, according to NBC 9news.
The outlet has named San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans as one of the frontrunners to become the new Broncos HC, though he’s joined by former Detroit Lions and Indianapolis head coach Jim Caldwell and Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.
It’s believed that there’s mutual interest between the Broncos and Payton, while quarterback Russell Wilson really wants to work with him. However, the team is wisely considering its options.
Broncos CEO and owner Gregg Penner is said to have spent the last few days consulting with other active owners, Carrie Walton Penner, RobWalton, and Condoleezza Rice, plus GM George Paton.
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The owner isn’t looking to rush the process and will have follow-up conversations both inside and outside of the team headquarters in order to glean more information on candidates, as well as to gauge their interest in the job.
The newly-minted Assistant Coach of the Year has already been interviewed by the Broncos, who will have to wait until early next week if they want to interview him for a second time as the 49ers will be playing the Eagles in the NFC Championship Game this Sunday. Should that be the case, Penner will be joined by Carrie Penner and Rob Walton.
Ryans is also reported to be a major coaching target for the Houston Texans.
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