The Pro Football Writers of America awarded Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph the 2025 NFL Assistant Coach of the Year. Joseph has a long history with the Broncos organization, having served as the team’s head coach from 2017-18, and he’s been the defensive coordinator since 2023. Joseph’s recognition is a result of leading one of the NFL’s top defenses this season. He is the first Denver coach to receive this honor since former Broncos defensive coordinator Wade Phillips did so in 2015.
Joseph is the mastermind behind one of the NFL’s best defenses
This season, Joseph’s defense is allowing 18.3 points per game, which is the third-best in the NFL. The defense also ranks second in the NFL, allowing 278.2 net yards per game, while it ranks first in the league for yards per play, allowing 4.46 yards per play on average.
The Broncos’ defense also leads the NFL this season with 68 sacks and ranks second in net rushing yards allowed per game, allowing only 91.1 net rushing yards per game. Trailing only the Seattle Seahawks, the Broncos’ defense is one of the best units on third down this season, while ranking in the top 10 in total yards, rushing yards, and passing yards.
Team History is happening with Joseph as defensive coordinator
In 10 games this season, the Broncos’ defense has held its opponents under 20 points. Under Joseph, the defense hasn’t allowed opponents to reach the end zone 10 times, and in 2025, it hasn’t allowed opponents to reach the end zone five times, which is a franchise record.
Since 2020, the Broncos’ defense has played in 52 games in which they have allowed less than 20 points, and their record in those games is 37-15. Denver has also had 10 games without allowing a touchdown since 2023, and its record in those games is 10-0.
He will need to maintain focus to help the Broncos win a championship
Given the success that Joseph has had as Denver’s defensive coordinator this season, it’s possible he can take a role as a head coach next season. Joseph has had remote interviews with the Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, and Arizona Cardinals.
Joseph has reduced the number of interviews he gives as he focuses on helping the Broncos’ defense stay sharp as they remain in the postseason. Though Joseph desires to be a head coach, he knows how important it will be to limit distractions, especially if he wants his defense to help the Broncos win not only the AFC Championship but the Super Bowl as well.
Main Photo: [Ron Chenoy] – Imagn Images
