BREAKING NEWS: Broncos Legend Steve Atwater Returns to Denver as Special Assistant Coach, Aiming to Revitalize Team’s Defense
By Miles Granger | June 3, 2025 | Denver, CO
In a move that has already electrified the Mile High City and sent waves through the NFL community, the Denver Broncos have officially announced that Steve Atwater, the legendary Hall of Fame safety and two-time Super Bowl champion, will return to the franchise this June. His new role? Special Assistant Coach, with a direct focus on bolstering the team’s struggling defense.
The announcement came early Tuesday morning via the Broncos’ official social media channels and was later confirmed during a press conference at team headquarters. This unexpected reunion between one of the most beloved players in franchise history and the team that he helped put on the map marks a strategic shift for the Broncos organization as they look to rebuild their defense from the ground up.
A Legendary Career Comes Full Circle
Steve Atwater, often referred to as “The Smiling Assassin,” is one of the most iconic defensive players in NFL history. Drafted by the Broncos in the first round (20th overall) of the 1989 NFL Draft, Atwater quickly made a name for himself as a hard-hitting safety with exceptional field awareness, fearless tackling, and strong leadership qualities.
Over a storied 10-year career with the Broncos (plus one year with the New York Jets), Atwater was selected to eight Pro Bowls, earned two First-Team All-Pro honors, and was an integral part of the Broncos’ back-to-back Super Bowl-winning teams in 1997 and 1998. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Now, nearly three decades since he first donned the orange and blue, Atwater is back—not as a player, but as a mentor and coach ready to guide the next generation of defensive stars.
The Timing: Why Now?
The Broncos’ decision to bring Atwater into the coaching staff comes on the heels of a particularly turbulent 2024 season. Despite flashes of brilliance from key players, Denver’s defense ranked 25th in total yards allowed and struggled particularly in third-down situations and late-game stops. Injuries, inconsistency, and lack of leadership plagued a unit that once prided itself on dominance.
Team President Damani Leach addressed the decision during Tuesday’s press conference:
> “Steve Atwater is more than a former player—he’s a cornerstone of Broncos culture. His presence in the locker room and on the practice field will inspire, challenge, and elevate our entire defense. This is about leadership, accountability, and bringing back that old-school Broncos mentality.”
Head Coach Sean Payton, entering his third year with the team, echoed the sentiment.
> “We’re building something here that requires more than just talent—it requires identity. Steve brings that. He’s been in the trenches. He knows what it takes to win at the highest level. Having him as a special assistant coach adds instant credibility and perspective.”
Atwater’s Vision: Building Toughness and Accountability
Speaking to the media after the announcement, Atwater was both humble and energized.
> “This organization has always been in my heart,” he said, flashing his signature smile. “When they called, I didn’t even need time to think. I’m here to help in any way I can. I want to make sure our defense plays with the kind of physicality, intelligence, and heart that Broncos fans deserve.”
Atwater will not be a full-time defensive coordinator or position coach. Instead, his role is defined as Special Assistant Coach – Defense, which means he’ll work across positional groups, focusing on mentoring young players, refining tackling fundamentals, developing game IQ, and promoting a team-first culture.
One of his main targets? The Broncos’ secondary, which struggled with coverage breakdowns and communication lapses in 2024. Atwater, a safety himself, plans to spend significant time with the team’s young defensive backs.
“I see a lot of potential out there,” he noted. “But potential doesn’t win games. Execution, discipline, and relentless effort do.”
Player Reactions: A Hall of Famer in the Building
The announcement of Atwater’s return has been met with excitement and optimism from players, past and present.
Second-year cornerback Kareem Lawson, one of the team’s most promising young talents, said in a social media post:
> “Man, Steve Atwater coming to coach us? That’s legendary. Can’t wait to learn from the best.”
Veteran linebacker Josey Jewell called Atwater’s hiring “a shot of adrenaline” for a defense that’s looking to reclaim its fearsome reputation.
Even former teammates like Shannon Sharpe and Terrell Davis chimed in on X (formerly Twitter), with Sharpe writing:
> “Love to see it. Steve will have those boys flying around the field like it’s ‘97 again.”
Broncos Fans Rejoice
For Broncos fans, the news has stirred a strong emotional response. Atwater remains one of the most revered figures in Denver sports history, known not only for his on-field heroics but also for his community involvement and infectious positivity.
Within hours of the announcement, sales of Atwater-themed merchandise surged on the team’s online store. Fan blogs and forums were abuzz with speculation about how his presence could accelerate the development of young defenders and inject old-school toughness into the Broncos locker room.
“Steve is the soul of our franchise,” said longtime fan and season ticket holder Monica Trejo. “We don’t just want wins—we want that Bronco grit again. Steve brings that back.”
Looking Ahead: A Turning Point?
While Atwater’s appointment won’t fix the defense overnight, it signals a cultural shift inside the organization. The Broncos are clearly committed to returning to their roots—a tradition built on punishing defense, intelligent playmaking, and unwavering team unity.
NFL analysts have already begun discussing the strategic implications. Former safety and ESPN commentator Ryan Clark offered his take:
> “This is a bold and smart move. Atwater isn’t just a name—they’re bringing in someone who knows how to teach, inspire, and elevate. That secondary is going to get a crash course in greatness.”
Legacy in Motion
In many ways, Steve Atwater’s return represents a full-circle moment. From suiting up as a rookie in 1989 to lifting the Lombardi Trophy twice and finally being enshrined in Canton, Atwater has seen it all. Now, he’s bringing those lessons, scars, and victories back to the field—not as a player, but as a teacher.
The Broncos’ defense is in transition. With Atwater back in the fold, it may just find its soul again.
As one chapter closes and another begins, one thing is certain: Broncos Country isn’t just welcoming a coach—they’re welcoming home a legend.
