The Broncos’ 2021 offensive staff featured two former head coaches, in OC Pat Shurmur and offensive line coach Mike Munchak. Nathaniel Hackett‘s first Denver staff looks like it will feature less experience.
Munchak, Denver’s O-line coach for the past three seasons, is unlikely to return under Hackett, Mike Klis of 9News notes. Although Klis adds one year remains on Munchak’s contract, the zone-blocking scheme Hackett plans to reinstall in Denver does not mesh with the concepts Broncos linemen utilized under Munchak.
Widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top O-line coaches, Munchak has received offers from other teams since the Broncos fired Vic Fangio, Klis adds. Munchak, 61, interviewed for Denver’s HC job in 2019 and ended up joining Fangio’s staff. Although the prospect of Munchak staying on in a different role under Hackett is in play, considering his contract status, it appears likely another team will employ him next season. Before coming to Denver, Munchak spent five seasons as Pittsburgh’s O-line coach. The Hall of Fame offensive lineman was the Titans’ head coach from 2011-13.
Broncos assistant O-line coach Chris Kuper could move into Munchak’s role, with Klis adding that 49ers assistant O-line coach Butch Barry is also expected to be interviewed for the job. Before receiving training in Kyle Shanahan‘s offense, Barry spent the 2020 season as a Packers assistant alongside Hackett.
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