Josh McDaniels’ brief tenure as Denver Broncos head coach left a lasting impression with intriguing personnel decisions, which are now being revealed following his recent firing from the Las Vegas Raiders. In a recent article, former Broncos tight end Nate Jackson sparked controversy by sharing stunning insights into McDaniels.
McDaniels, who is 47 years old, is likely to earn a big payoff, with team owner Mark Davis owing him almost $45 million. Regardless of the financial recompense, rebuilding a tainted coaching reputation is a difficult undertaking. It could be a long time before he returns to coaching in the NFL.
Several reports have surfaced indicating player dissatisfaction throughout McDaniels’ tenure. This is hardly surprising, given the public outpourings of discontent from key players such as Davante Adams and Josh Jacobs earlier in the season. These athletes appear to be eager to collaborate with Antonio Pierce.
However, it appears that the revelation of McDaniels’ poor coaching decisions and temperament has merely scratched the surface.
Former Denver Broncos tight end Nate Jackson, now an author, shed light on
McDaniels, according to Jackson, had a fragile ego both on and off the pitch. One of the stunning stories was the rumoured reason for McDaniels’ decision to trade away future star running back Peyton Hillis—apparently, McDaniels suspected that his wife, Laura, had feelings for Hillis.According to Jackson, “McDaniels” ego wasn’t only a delicate blossom on the pitch. He famously ordered Peyton Hillis packing because McDaniels assumed his wife had a fondness for the guy.”
Peyton Hillis went on to have a breakout season with the Browns in 2010, gaining 1,654 total yards and 13 touchdowns and eventually becoming the cover player for EA Sports’ Madden 2012.
Jackson did not stop with the Hillis narrative; he also shared a personal anecdote.
“A message left on my parents’ answering machine informed me that my Broncos career was over.” ‘Honey, there’s something I think you should hear.” When I tried to reach Josh for an explanation, his secretary said he was in a meeting and would call me back later. He’s never done it.”Moving on, the former NFL tight end outlines how offensive players like Culter, Scheffler, and Marshall put McDaniels in jeopardy. Under head coach Mike Shanahan, these players developed into exceptional players, helping the team win two Super Bowls.
Jackson even quoted the coach after moving Culter:
“Don’t worry about the quarterback situation, fellas. “I can develop a high school quarterback into an All-Star.”
