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Even though the NFL playoffs are getting underway, the NFL’s coaching carousel has already begun. Teams with coaching openings are beginning to request interviews with coaches and coordinators around the league. Current Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero is already having his name thrown around.
Who is Broncos DC Ejiro Evero?
Evero played his college ball at UC Davis and then went undrafted in 2004. His NFL career never got off the ground as he was only in the league for a season with the then-Oakland Raiders and only on their practice squad.
He wasted little time getting into coaching as he returned to UC Davis as an assistant coach from 2005-2006. Evero got his first taste of NFL coaching with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as their defensive quality control coach from 2007 to 2009. He then joined the San Francisco 49ers in 2011 and worked as a quality control coach, offensive assistant and defensive assistant from 2011-2015.
Evero spent one season with the Green Bay Packers as their defensive quality control coach in 2016. He then went to the Los Angeles Rams as their safeties coach from 2017-2020 and then their secondary coach and passing game coordinator in 2021. Finally, Evero took over as the Denver Broncos' defensive coordinator in 2022.
Why would he make a good head coach?
Evero is a solid mix of experience with youth. While he has been involved in NFL coaching circles since 2007, he is still only 42 years old. He would be a defensive-minded head coach and could completely give an offensive coordinator the reigns to that side of the ball. Despite the Broncos’ struggles in the 2022 season, their defense remained one of the better units in the league.
Which teams are interviewing him?
Denver Broncos
It makes sense that Evero is getting an interview with his current team. He was successful as their defensive coordinator and helped his defense retain its stature even after they traded away Bradley Chubb. Evero likely already has a relationship with quarterback Russell Wilson, but the promoting of the team’s defensive coordinator would help Evero bring in an offensive coordinator to handle the play calling on offense while he focuses on the team as a whole and the defense.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts interviewed Evero on Thursday, per Adam Schefter. Indy’s defense was solid this season, ranking No. 14 in efficiency. Their offense was a dumpster fire, so Evero’s plan for the offense would be the big question in the interview room. Who would be his offensive coordinator and who would be his quarterbacks coach? He’s a strong defensive mind and his Broncos defense finished No. 10 in efficiency.
Houston Texans
The Texans requested to interview Evero this week. A team that needs a full renovation from the ground up, Evero could be a spark in the Texans organization. He would be the fourth coach in as many seasons, so the job stability isn’t great, but with two high first-round picks, there’s a foundation for him to build from.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers requested an interview with Evero. Carolina is in a weird place as it seemed like they were heading toward a rebuild when trading star running back Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers. The team then finished 7-10 and in second place in the NFC South. The Panthers have the pieces in place for a stellar defense, so a defensive-minded head coach could help them avoid a full rebuild as they address the offense in the offseason.
Arizona Cardinals
The question for Evero is what will his philosophy be on offense? Much will depend on who he wants to be the offensive coordinator and how he would steer that coach. We know he can get a defense on point and as a younger coach, but one with experience, he should have a decent rapport with the players. He’s be a question mark, but his upside should be high.