Two years is not a long time. But it has allowed Chris Banjo to cover a lot of ground.
His decade-long playing career as a safety and key reserve for three teams ended in 2023. He exchanged his helmet and shoulder pads for a whistle, joining Sean Payton’s Broncos staff in February of that same year. He played three seasons for Payton in New Orleans — 2016-2018 — and was long viewed as a potential coach because of his football IQ and energy.
New Jets coach Aaron Glenn took notice, hiring Banjo as his club’s special teams coordinator, a source confirmed to The Denver Post.
Banjo worked as a special teams assistant under Ben Kotwica and Mike Westhoff the past two seasons in Denver. Both are gone. Westhoff left during last season because of an eye issue and Kotwica was fired.
Banjo interviewed with multiple teams this offseason, helped by his work with two-time All-Pro punt returner Marvin Mims Jr. and kicker Wil Lutz. Glenn likely received intel from Payton about Banjo as Glenn worked for the Saints while Payton was there.
“Loved playing for this dude the last two years. So much respect for Banjo during our time as teammates and as my coach!” Lutz tweeted on Wednesday night. “He changed out special teams as a player in New Orleans and brought energy and knowledge as a coach in Denver. NYJ got a good one.”
Banjo’s exit leaves the lingering question of where do the Broncos go next on special teams?
Darren Rizzi could provide the answer if he does not land the Saints head coaching job. Rizzi ran the special teams in Payton’s final three seasons in New Orleans and was named interim coach halfway through 2024 when Dennis Allen was fired. Philadelphia offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and Rizzi are among the known finalists for the Saints head coaching position after former Dallas coach Mike McCarthy removed himself from consideration.
As it stands, the Broncos have staff openings for a special teams coordinator and assistant, tight ends coach, linebackers coach and passing game coordinator.
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