Broncos Hire Former Saints WR Willie Snead IV to Coaching Staff

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The Denver Broncos have hired former New Orleans Saints wide receiver Willie Snead IV to join Sean Payton's coaching staff as an offensive quality control coach. Snead played under Payton with the Saints from 2015-2017, having his best NFL seasons during that time. This marks a reunion between the coach and player as they look to work together again in Denver.

Why it matters

The hiring of Snead represents a continued effort by Payton to surround himself with familiar faces and former players as he builds out his coaching staff with the Broncos. Payton has a history of bringing in former players he's worked with in the past, believing they can provide valuable insights and a seamless transition to his offensive system.

The details

Snead played in the NFL for nine seasons, most recently with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. He began his career with the Saints in 2015 when Payton was the head coach, and had his best seasons under Payton, catching 69 passes for 984 yards and 3 touchdowns as a rookie, followed by 72 receptions for 895 yards and 4 touchdowns in his second year. After an injury-shortened 2017 season, Snead left the Saints and never reunited with Payton again until now, as he joins the Broncos' coaching staff.

• Snead played for the Saints from 2015-2017 under Sean Payton.
• Snead most recently played for the San Francisco 49ers in 2023.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Broncos will look to integrate Snead into their offensive coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.