The Denver Broncos have sacked head coach Nathaniel Hackett following an underwhelming start to the 2022-23 season.
The 43-year-old - who previously served as the Green Bay Packers' offensive coordinator - posted a paltry record of 4-11 from his 15 games in charge of the Broncos since being hired in January.
On Christmas Day, the Broncos suffered a humiliating 14-51 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams, which proved to be the final straw for Hackett, who was fired less than 24 hours later.
"On behalf of our ownership and organization, I want to thank Nathaniel Hackett for his dedication as head coach of the Denver Broncos. We sincerely appreciate Nathaniel's efforts and wish him and his family all the best in the future," a statement from CEO Greg Penner read.
"Following extensive conversations with George and our ownership group, we determined a new direction would ultimately be in the best interest of the Broncos. This change was made now out of respect for everyone involved and allows us to immediately begin the search for a new head coach.
"We recognize and appreciate this organization's championship history, and we understand we have not met that standard. Our fans deserve much better, and I can't say enough about their loyalty during such a challenging stretch for our team.
"Moving forward, we will carefully evaluate every aspect of our football operations and make whatever changes are necessary to restore this franchise's winning tradition.
"I will lead our head coaching search with support from our ownership group and George, whom I have confidence in as our general manager. As we begin the process of selecting our next head coach, we remain focused on playing competitive football to finish the season on a positive note."
The Broncos, who sit 15th in the AFC, have already been eliminated from postseason contention and face AFC West leaders the Kansas City Chiefs on New Year's Day.
Ben Knapton
