Sean Payton reunites with longtime former assistant coach

Aug 11, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton looks on against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Sean Payton is reuniting with one of his former assistant coaches in Denver.

Former New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr. has joined Payton’s staff with the Broncos, Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com reports. While Carmichael’s official title has not been revealed, he is expected to serve in the role of senior offensive assistant.

Carmichael was hired as an offensive assistant by Payton in Payton’s first year as head coach of the Saints back in 2006. Carmichael was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2009, and he held that job in New Orleans until he was fired earlier this month. The 52-year-old was the only remaining member of the Saints’ staff that had been there since Payton was head coach.

Joe Lombardi, who also coached under Payton in New Orleans, is Denver’s offensive coordinator. Though the Broncos ranked in the bottom half of the NFL with 21.0 points per game this past season, there has been no indication that Payton has plans to demote Lombardi.

The Broncos could make some major changes on offense in the coming weeks. Carmichael should bring some added stability and familiarity for Payton heading into the coach’s second year in Denver.