Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton reportedly explored a plan to bring in NFL legend Bill Belichick as the team's temporary head coach with the goal of surpassing Don Shula's all-time coaching wins record.
According to ESPN, Payton considered proposing to Broncos owner Greg Penner that Belichick take over as interim head coach. The reported plan was for Belichick to remain in the role until he achieved 15 wins, which would have allowed him to pass Shula's record of 328 NFL victories. During this period, Payton would have served as assistant head coach.
Once Belichick reached the milestone, Payton would have resumed his position as head coach. However, Payton ultimately decided against officially making the offer to Penner, deeming the plan too complex. Belichick also would have needed to agree to the arrangement.
Belichick, who is now the head football coach at the University of North Carolina, parted ways with the New England Patriots after the 2023 season. His departure and future coaching plans have been a subject of discussion, particularly in light of his Hall of Fame consideration, where some voters reportedly cited controversies like 'Spygate' as reasons for not electing him on the first ballot.
Payton and Belichick have a long-standing connection, having both served on Bill Parcells' staff at different times before becoming head coaches in the NFL. Payton's Broncos reached the AFC Championship Game last season, losing to Belichick's Patriots.
Despite speculation about a potential return to the NFL, Belichick has stated his commitment to his role with the North Carolina Tar Heels, indicating he intends to see out his second season with the team. Payton, meanwhile, is focused on returning the Broncos to Super Bowl contention.
