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DENVER, COLORADO – JANUARY 25: Head coach Sean Payton of the Denver Broncos reacts during the third quarter in the AFC Championship Playoff game against the New England Patriots at Empower Field At Mile High on January 25, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

One day after being fired by the Denver Broncos, Joe Lombardi didn’t mince words.

He offered a candid explanation of how the decision unfolded and pointed to what it was like working for Sean Payton when his mind was set on change. 

Speaking with The Denver Gazette, Lombardi said he wasn’t surprised when Payton called him into his office Tuesday and informed him he was moving on.

“Sean decided to move on, and I guess that’s all there is to say,” Lombardi said. 

“I don’t think it’s ever a surprise in the NFL. Not really.”

Lombardi framed the decision as part of Payton’s personality and process and something he felt coming.

“I think you could tell he was in one of those moods where he felt like some changes needed to be made,” Lombardi said.  

“I guess he decided one of those was me. I’ve been around him long enough to kind of read the tea leaves.”

The remark carried a subtle edge, implying Lombardi recognized the signs before Payton ever said a word. 

Lombardi Not Buying the ‘Scapegoat’ Narrative

Despite outside speculation, Lombardi pushed back on the idea that he was used as a scapegoat after Denver’s 10-7 loss to New England in the AFC Championship Game.

The Broncos were forced to start backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham after Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle injury in the Divisional Round. 

Payton called the plays, and Denver failed to convert a critical fourth-down attempt in the second quarter, a decision Payton later admitted he regretted.

Lombardi said he never felt like Payton was putting the blame on him:

“Well, we made it to the AFC Championship,” he said. 

“I don’t know why there needs to be a scapegoat. I thought it was a good season. So no, I didn’t feel like that in any way. I just think Sean wanted to go in another direction.”

Former NFL head coach Jay Gruden didn’t see it the same way.

Gruden openly criticized the move on social media, calling attention to the fourth-down decision and questioning why Lombardi took the fall when Payton had the play sheet.

“That’s what bothers me,” Gruden later told the Gazette. “Sean is the one putting the game plan together.”

Even though Payton handled the game plan and play-calling, many feel Lombardi is the one taking the fall.

What Comes Next for Lombardi

Lombardi spent 14 seasons working alongside Payton, including 11 years with the New Orleans Saints. 

Despite the abrupt ending in Denver, he made it clear there’s no lingering resentment toward Payton. 

“It’s part of the business,” Lombardi said. “He employed me for a long time. I’m appreciative of that.” 

As for what’s next, Lombardi isn’t rushing anything.

“It’s a little early,” he said.

“We’ll figure it out as it goes along.”

For now, Lombardi moves on after helping guide the Broncos to the AFC Championship Game.

The decision remains debated around the league.

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