Source: Lynch to start at QB for Denver

A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that former first-round draft pick Paxton Lynch will start at quarterback for the Broncos on Sunday at Oakland.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because Denver coach Vance Joseph won’t announce his starter until Wednesday.

General manager John Lynch moved up in the 2016 draft to select Lynch with the 26th pick in the first round, but the former Memphis QB was soundly beaten out by seventh-rounder Trevor Siemian for two straight seasons. Lynch hasn’t played this year.

Siemian lost his job three weeks ago and Brock Osweiler, who was re-signed when Lynch bruised his throwing shoulder in the preseason, went winless in three starts.

Lynch was active for the first time Sunday, serving as backup.

Raiders fire defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr.

ALAMEDA » The Oakland Raiders fired defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. in a staff shakeup during a disappointing season.

Coach Jack Del Rio called the move a difficult decision and said that assistant head coach for defense John Pagano will take over as coordinator leading into this week’s home game against the Denver Broncos.

“I have the utmost respect for Ken as a person and as a coach, but I feel that moving John Pagano into the play-calling role will best utilize his wealth of experience,” Del Rio said in a statement.