Broncos promote Joe Woods to defensive coordinator

The Broncos announced the move Tuesday, which many anticipated after Wade Phillips left to become the defensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams.

Christian Clark

Jan. 17, 2017, 12:56 p.m.

Denver Broncos defensive backs coach Joe Woods is getting a promotion. After spending two years in that post, Woods is being elevated to defensive coordinator.

The Broncos announced the move Tuesday, which many anticipated after Wade Phillips left to become the defensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams.

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Denver’s secondary has been nothing short of dominant since Woods took it over in 2015. The Broncos allowed 199.6 yards passing per game in 2015 and lowered that to 185.8 in 2016. They also held opposing quarterbacks to the lowest completion percentage (57.8), yards per attempt (5.99) and passer rating (74.3) in football over the last two seasons.

Woods was a defensive backs coach for 13 seasons in all with Denver (2015-16), Oakland (2014), Minnesota (2006-13) and Tampa Bay (2004-05).

Now he’ll get his first opportunity as a defensive coordinator.

“Joe Woods is ready for this opportunity,” new head coach Vance Joseph said in a press release. “He’s been a long-time NFL assistant coach and has done great work at the secondary position. No one will outwork Joe. He’s got tremendous attention to detail as well as a lot of familiarity with our players.

“It’s his time, and he’s ready for it. I’m very excited to watch Joe grow as a coordinator.”

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