In a move that has caught the attention of the NFL world, former New Orleans Saints special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi has officially joined the Denver Broncos’ coaching staff. Rizzi, known for his impactful coaching of special teams during his time with the Saints, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to a Broncos team that has struggled in that department in recent seasons.
However, the most surprising aspect of today’s announcement isn’t just Rizzi’s new role, but the cryptic message he reportedly sent to Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Kellen Moore following his hiring by the Broncos.
Darren Rizzi’s New Role with the Broncos
Rizzi, who spent 13 years with the Saints and gained widespread recognition for his work with their special teams, takes on a crucial role with the Broncos as they aim to revitalize their roster and coaching staff under head coach Sean Payton.
Special teams have been a weak link for the Broncos in recent years, and Rizzi’s addition signals a commitment to improving that area. Under Rizzi’s guidance, the Saints consistently ranked among the NFL’s top special teams units, thanks to his attention to detail and ability to maximize the talents of his players. It’s expected that Rizzi will bring that same intensity to Denver.
“Darren is a tremendous addition to our staff,” Payton said in a statement. “His ability to get the most out of his players, especially in the critical moments that special teams often provide, will be invaluable for us moving forward.”
The Mysterious Message to Kellen Moore
While Rizzi’s new role is significant, it’s the curious message he reportedly sent to Kellen Moore that is sparking the most buzz. Moore, the offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, has become known for his high-flying offensive schemes and creative playcalling, helping the Cowboys remain competitive in a tough NFC East division.
The exact content of Rizzi’s message is still unclear, but sources close to the situation have speculated that it could be a challenge or even a friendly jab at Moore, who has drawn both praise and criticism for his offensive system. Some believe that Rizzi’s message may have been a subtle reminder that, while special teams are often overlooked, they play a pivotal role in shaping games — a reminder that could play into upcoming matchups between the Broncos and the Cowboys.
“It’s very interesting timing,” said one NFL insider. “Rizzi and Moore have never worked together, so for Rizzi to reach out now — after joining a division rival’s coaching staff — suggests there’s something more behind the message. Whether it’s a challenge to Moore’s offensive schemes or simply a message about the importance of special teams, it’s definitely caught people’s attention.”
While it remains unclear whether the message was lighthearted or competitive in nature, Rizzi’s reputation for being a no-nonsense, highly focused coach makes this development all the more intriguing. Could it be an indication that Rizzi is preparing to take on Moore’s offensive philosophies head-to-head in the future?
What This Means for the AFC West
The addition of Rizzi to the Broncos’ staff comes at a critical time for the franchise. With the team looking to build on a disappointing season and move forward under head coach Sean Payton, the improvement of special teams will be a key part of Denver’s resurgence. But beyond the immediate impact of Rizzi’s work with the special teams unit, his reported message to Moore could have broader implications for the AFC West.
Rizzi’s presence in Denver may signal a shift in the Broncos’ approach to all phases of the game — one that takes into account the strategic importance of special teams as an often-overlooked factor in team success. The rivalry between the Broncos and the Cowboys, while not as heated as some others in the NFL, could now take on a new dimension with Rizzi’s challenge to Moore potentially adding a layer of intrigue to their matchups.
With the Kansas City Chiefs continuing to dominate the division and the Los Angeles Chargers remaining competitive, the Broncos are looking to gain an edge in all areas of the game. The AFC West has never been more competitive, and Denver’s moves this offseason indicate they are serious about climbing the ranks.
What’s Next for Rizzi and Moore?
As the season approaches, fans and analysts will be eagerly awaiting the first matchup between the Denver Broncos and Dallas Cowboys. While it’s unclear how much weight Rizzi’s message to Moore will carry, it is certainly one of the more peculiar storylines to emerge in the lead-up to the 2025 season.
For now, Rizzi will focus on getting Denver’s special teams unit into top form, while Moore will continue refining his offensive system with the Cowboys. But it seems that these two coaches, each with a different focus and approach to the game, may soon find themselves in an unexpected rivalry.
Stay tuned as more details emerge regarding Darren Rizzi’s cryptic message to Kellen Moore and its potential impact on the NFL landscape. The 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with plenty of storylines to follow — and this one is certainly one to watch.