Report: Broncos to be aggressive in finding head coach

The Denver Broncos' ownership group is expected to be "ultra aggressive" in securing the team's next head coach, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The Penner-Walton group, which owns the team, won't be frugal in its attempt to boost the franchise, Schefter adds.

Former New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton, Michigan sideline boss Jim Harbaugh, and Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn are slated to be among the top targets, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Denver fired Nathaniel Hackett before he was able to finish his first season as a head coach after the club went 4-11 through 15 games.

Owner Greg Penner said in a statement following Hackett's dismissal that he'll lead the search for the new head coach, with additional support from the ownership group. Senior assistant coach Jerry Rosburg is serving as the interim sideline boss to finish out the campaign.

Hackett was part of an offseason makeover that also included quarterback Russell Wilson's arrival via a trade with the Seattle Seahawks. However, the two struggled to make it work, as the offense averaged 15.5 points per game while Wilson posted a career-low 82.6 passer rating in 2022.

The Broncos haven't made the postseason since winning the Super Bowl at the conclusion of the 2015 season.