In just two years, Chris Banjo has made significant strides in his coaching career after wrapping up a decade-long playing tenure as a safety. In 2023, Banjo retired from football and quickly transitioned to coaching, joining Sean Payton’s Broncos staff as part of the special teams team. Banjo’s playing career, which spanned three teams, was highlighted by three seasons with Payton in New Orleans (2016-2018). Known for his football IQ and high energy, he was often seen as a future coach.
Now, Banjo is headed to the Jets, where new head coach Aaron Glenn hired him as special teams coordinator. The move was confirmed by a source to The Denver Post.
Over the past two years, Banjo served as a special teams assistant in Denver, working under Ben Kotwica and Mike Westhoff, both of whom have since left. Westhoff retired due to an eye condition, while Kotwica was dismissed. Banjo’s involvement with key players, including two-time All-Pro punt returner Marvin Mims Jr. and kicker Wil Lutz, helped boost his stock. Glenn, who previously worked with Payton in New Orleans, likely received valuable feedback on Banjo’s potential.
Lutz expressed his admiration for Banjo on social media, praising his leadership and impact both as a player and as a coach. He tweeted, “Loved playing for this dude the last two years. So much respect for Banjo during our time as teammates and as my coach! He changed our special teams as a player in New Orleans and brought energy and knowledge as a coach in Denver. NYJ got a good one.”
Banjo’s departure raises the question of who will replace him in Denver. The Broncos are in need of a new special teams coordinator, as well as assistants for several other positions. Darren Rizzi, former special teams coordinator for Payton in New Orleans, is a leading candidate. Rizzi is also among the finalists for the Saints head coaching role, which has left the Broncos with uncertainty regarding their next special teams leader. Meanwhile, Denver also has vacancies for tight ends coach, linebackers coach, and passing game coordinator.
