As we process the surprising news that Mike Nolan has left the Broncos after one successful season, the most obvious candidate to replace him is former Patriots defensive coordinator Dean Pees.
Pees left the Patriots after the 2009 season, when his contract expired. There are differing accounts as to whether he left by choice.
Pees and McDaniels spent five years together in New England. During 2007’s 18-0 start that ended with a loud thud, McDaniels ran the offense and Pees ran the defense.
If Pees goes to Denver, two sets of former Patriots coordinators would be inhabiting the AFC West; earlier this month, former offensive coordinator Charlie Weis and former defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel joined the Chiefs.