Two offseasons ago, the Rams promoted Ejiro Evero from safeties coach — his role from 2017-20 — to their defensive backs coach. This offseason, two teams are seriously considering him for head coaching positions.
The Broncos’ defensive coordinator has made it to the finalist stage with the Texans and now the Colts. Indianapolis wants to bring Evero in for a second HC interview, Tom Pelissero of NFL.com tweets. The Texans plan to interview him for a second time Wednesday, setting up a tour of multiple AFC South facilities for the fast-rising DC.
This has been a remarkable stretch for Evero, and considering the Broncos’ situation, the one-year DC’s climb has veered toward unusual. Denver went 5-12 this year, with its decision to hire Nathaniel Hackett backfiring to the point the team ranked last offensively despite trading for Russell Wilson. Hackett brought in his longtime friend to be his right-hand man on defense, and Evero’s unit performed well despite injuries and the midseason trade of Bradley Chubb.
Despite firing acclaimed defensive maestro Vic Fangio, the Broncos improved in total defense — from eighth to seventh — this past season and ranked 10th in DVOA. While Denver is conducting its own HC search — after becoming the third team since the 1970 merger to fire a coach before his first season ended — Evero will have the chance to earn a top job elsewhere. The Broncos interviewed Evero but have been linked to preferring Sean Payton and Dan Quinn. Though, no Denver finalists have emerged yet. The Colts have been the only team not to set up a Payton interview.
Evero, 42, is the first known Colts finalist. Others will follow. Thirteen coaches have interviewed — all doing so virtually — thus far, and Pelissero adds Jim Irsay was not in any of these meetings (video link). Irsay will meet with each of the finalists in person. Considering Irsay’s outsized role in personnel moves over the past year, his presence in these meetings will be rather important — for both parties.
Nothing makes more sense than hiring a guy with 1 year of DC duties be the Head Coach. Gotta get this guy as he currently is one of the hot commodity’s this year. Such foolishness
Apparently he interviewed well & has a strong vision & leadership style the Colts value. Ballard said what side of the ball didn’t matter, nor does age or experience. They’re not considering hiring him for his one year DC experience.
You get bonus points for interviewing a black man twice.
Well as far as the Colts are concerned he still has way more experience than their interim head coach haha.
Don’t be surprised if they don’t hire Saturday permanently; & don’t be surprised if he isn’t successful. Those 8 games were lost when Reich fired the OC & then left the team with a bad scheme & no time to change it. Saturday has a plan & he’s shown tremendous leadership. He has to hire top coordinators with a great scheme. I think he will.