Saints Former Offensive Coach Joining Sean Payton in Denver

The Denver Broncos continue to form a familiar look to New Orleans fans as former coach Sean Payton adds another of his former assistants to his new staff.

Author:
Bob Rose
Publish date:
Feb 23, 2023 2:41 PM EST

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New Orleans Saints

Add Joe Lombardi to the list of former New Orleans Saints coaches that are joining former Saints head coach Sean Payton in Denver. According to Broncos Insider Mike Klis, Lombardi is being hired as Denver's new offensive coordinator.

Payton was the Saints head coach from 2006 until his resignation after the 2021 season. In 15 years with New Orleans, he guided them to nine playoff appearances, three NFC title games, and a Super Bowl XLIV championship.

The Saints traded Payton's rights, along with a 2024 third-round choice, to the Broncos in January. In exchange, New Orleans received the 29th selection in the first round of the 2023 draft and a 2024 second-round pick.

Since Payton's arrival in Denver, he's hired Lombardi and five more of his former New Orleans assistants. Ex-special teams coach Mike Westhoff, former Strength and Conditioning coach Dan Dalrymple, and ex-defensive assistant Michael Wilhoite were hired in the same roles with the Broncos. Zach Strief (Offensive Line Coach) and Declan Doyle (TE Coach) were hired away from the Saints in promoted roles.

Aug 22, 2011; New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr. (left) and quarterbacks coach Joe Lombardi at training camp. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Lombardi, the grandson of Hall of Fame coach Vince Lombardi, had previously been the offensive coordinator for the Chargers from 2021 to 2022. Lombardi had worked for Sean Payton and the Saints from 2007 to 2013 as an offensive assistant and QB coach.

The Detroit Lions hired Lombardi as their offensive coordinator in 2014, a role he had for two seasons. After leaving Detroit, Lombardi returned to the Saints in 2016. He'd serve as the QB Coach for New Orleans until being hired by the Chargers after the 2020 season.