Broncos Hire Robert Livingston as Defensive Pass Game Coordinator

Livingston joins Sean Payton's staff after two seasons at University of Colorado

Feb. 25, 2026 at 6:04pm

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The Denver Broncos have hired Robert Livingston as their new defensive pass game coordinator, replacing Jim Leonhard who left to become the Buffalo Bills' defensive coordinator. Livingston comes to the Broncos after serving as the defensive coordinator at the University of Colorado for the past two seasons under head coach Deion Sanders.

Why it matters

Livingston's hiring represents a key addition to Sean Payton's coaching staff as the Broncos look to improve their defense and return to the playoffs after a disappointing 2025 season. Livingston has previous NFL experience as a safeties coach with the Cincinnati Bengals, and his familiarity with Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph should help with the transition.

The details

Livingston, 42, spent the last two seasons as the defensive coordinator at the University of Colorado under head coach Deion Sanders. Prior to that, he was the safeties coach for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2016 to 2023, after serving as a scout and quality control coach with the team from 2013 to 2015. Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph was also on the Bengals' staff in 2014 and 2015, so the two coaches have previously worked together.

  • Livingston was the defensive coordinator at the University of Colorado for the past two seasons (2024-2025).
  • Livingston was the safeties coach for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2016 to 2023.

The players

Robert Livingston

The new defensive pass game coordinator for the Denver Broncos, previously served as the defensive coordinator at the University of Colorado for the past two seasons.

Jim Leonhard

The former defensive pass game coordinator for the Denver Broncos, who left to become the defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who is looking to improve the team's defense and return to the playoffs.

Vance Joseph

The defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, who previously worked with Robert Livingston on the Cincinnati Bengals' coaching staff.

Deion Sanders

The head coach of the University of Colorado, where Robert Livingston served as the defensive coordinator for the past two seasons.

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What they’re saying

“Livingston has been an impressive defensive coordinator at the college level, and his experience in the NFL will be a valuable asset to our coaching staff.”

— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos (Denver Post)

What’s next

Livingston will begin his new role with the Broncos immediately, as the team prepares for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Broncos' hiring of Robert Livingston as their new defensive pass game coordinator represents a strategic move to bolster their coaching staff and improve the team's defensive performance after a disappointing 2025 season. Livingston's previous NFL experience and familiarity with Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph should help facilitate a smooth transition and position the team for a potential playoff run in 2026.