Shula hired as QB coach
The Broncos’ fifth quarterbacks coach in five years will be Mike Shula, who was hired on Tuesday. Shula follows new offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur from the New York Giants.
Shula, who interviewed with the Broncos last week, was the Giants’ offensive coordinator/ quarterbacks coach the last two years but did not call the plays.
“Mike is a well-respected coach around the league, especially when it comes to developing quarterbacks,” Broncos coach Vic Fangio said in a statement. “The familiarity he has with Pat is an added bonus, but what’s most impressive is Mike’s proven track record coaching quarterbacks at many different stages of their careers. We’re fortunate to add someone with his depth of experience, coaching ability and unique perspective to our staff.”
Shula’s hiring leaves the Broncos with two openings: Outside linebackers coach (Brandon Staley left to become the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator) and director of football administration (Mike Sullivan’s contract was not renewed).
Shula, 54, is the son of Don Shula, the NFL’s all-time winningest coach (328 wins).
Mike Shula started his coaching career in 1988 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and he has been with six NFL teams. He also spent four years as Alabama’s head coach (2003-06, going 26-23 before NCAA sanctions prior to his arrival dropped his record to 10-23).
The Broncos’ three quarterbacks under contract are veteran Joe Flacco, presumed 2020 starter Drew Lock and Brett Rypien. Brandon Allen is a restricted free agent.
Shula started at quarterback for Alabama from 1984-86 and was a 12th round pick by Tampa Bay.
Shula coached for Tampa Bay (offensive assistant, 198890), Miami (coaching assistant under his father, 1991-92), Chicago (tight ends, 1993-96), Miami (quarterbacks, 2000-02), Jacksonville (quarterbacks, 2007-10), Carolina (quarterbacks, 2011-12 and offensive coordinator, 2013-17) and the Giants.
In Carolina, Shula coached Cam Newton in 2011 when he won offensive rookie of the year and was the Panthers’ play caller in 2015 when Newton won MVP and lost to the Broncos in the Super Bowl.