Broncos adding former Michigan star to coaching staff

Nathaniel Hackett is bringing a former Michigan star to the Broncos. According to On3’s Matt Zenitz, former Wolverines running back Tyrone Wheatley is joining Denver as their running backs coach.

“The Broncos are expected to hire ex-Michigan and NFL running back Tyrone Wheatley as running backs coach, sources tell @On3sports,” tweeted Zenitz. “Wheatley has been the coach at Morgan State since 2019 after serving as running backs coach for Michigan and the Jaguars.”

Moreover, Wheatley is one of the top offensive players in the history of Michigan. During his time with the Wolverines, the star running back gained numerous accolades, including being named the 1992 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year. After being selected by the New York Giants in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft, Wheatley spent ten seasons in the NFL.

Following his impressive playing career, Wheatley started the next chapter of his football journey — coaching. After beginning at Robichaud High School in Michigan, the former Michigan star worked his way up to the NFL. He had two separate stints, spending two seasons with each the Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars. In-between, he returned to the Wolverines, coaching their running backs in 2015 and 2016.

Since 2019, Tyrone Wheatley has been the head coach at Morgan State. However, he’s opting to return to the NFL, given an opportunity too good to pass up by Hackett and the Broncos.

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Furthermore, the addition of Tyrone Wheatley helps the Broncos and Nathaniel Hackett continue to fill out an impressive staff. However, he’s the latest hire from the college game ranks. According to On3’s Matt Zenitz, Denver is also expected to hire Temple co-defensive coordinator Ola Adams as their defensive backs coach.

“The Broncos are expected to hire Temple co-DC Ola Adams as assistant defensive backs coach, a source tells @On3sports,” tweeted Zenitz. “First reported by @PeteThamel. Adams was Villanova’s DC last season. Under Adams, Villanova ranked seventh in the FCS in total defense.”

The Owls’ loss is the Broncos’ gain, as Hackett is looking to fill out his staff with talented coaches. As a first time coach with ties to the offensive side of the football, every hire on the defensive side is a little more important.

With the move to Denver, Adams will be able to coach former Alabama star Patrick Surtain II. After a great rookie season, the Broncos 2021 first round selection will be looking to become one of the premier defensive backs in the NFL. It’ll be Adams’ job to help continue bringing his tremendous talent out.