Nathaniel Hackett won’t even get to finish his first year as Denver Broncos head coach. After an embarrassing 51-14 Christmas Day loss, the Broncos have fired their first-year head coach.
The Walton-Penner Group announced the decision on Monday (Dec. 26) morning.
“Following extensive conversations with [general manager] George [Paton] and our ownership group, we determined a new direction would ultimately be in the best interest of the Broncos,” Penner said in a statement. “This change was made now out of respect for everyone involved and allows us to immediately begin the search for a new head coach.
“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.”
Jerry Rosburg will take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Hackett departs with a record of 4-11.
If you are a Broncos fan, then this season has been one from hell. The team was looking good a few months ago when they got Russell Wilson in a trade. However, Wilson has been playing some of the worst football of his career. In fact, one could argue he is one of the worst QBs in the entire league.
Additionally, the team’s head coach Nathaniel Hackett has been awful. This was his first year with the team, and there was hope that he would inject new life into the franchise. Of course, that has not happened, and now, fans are completely fed up with him.
Head coach Nathaniel Hackett of the Denver Broncos watches action prior to a game prior to a game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on December 04, 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
Broncos Make A Change
Yesterday, on Christmas, the Denver Broncos lost to the Los Angeles Rams by a score of 51-14. Wilson threw numerous interceptions while Hackett did nothing to help his team’s fortunes. Overall, it was easily the team’s worst game of the entire season.
The Broncos’ front office was so mad that they immediately fired Hackett this morning. In a statement, according to TMZ, team CEO Greg Penner explained the decision.
“Following extensive conversations with George and our ownership group, we determined a new direction will ultimately be in the best interest of the Broncos,” Penner said. “This change was made now out of respect for everyone involved and allows us to immediately begin the search for a new head coach.”
Head coach Nathaniel Hackett of the Denver Broncos reacts on the sidelines against the Kansas City Chiefs in the second half at Empower Field at Mile High on December 11, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
This is probably the right decision, moving forward. As you can see below, the Broncos were a complete laughingstock yesterday. Consequently, a move had to be made.
The Broncos traded every draft pick for a QB that gets roasted by Patrick Star pic.twitter.com/ifu06A0a0y
Let us know what you think about all of this, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest updates from around the sports world.
This entire situation is completely tragic. 31 is way too young to die, and his former teammates can’t believe the news. Fans of the Broncos remember Hillman for being an incredible professional, and his spirit helped uplift the team during its most successful stint of the 2010s.
NFL player Ronnie Hillman attends BODY At The ESPYs Pre-Party at Avalon Hollywood on July 12, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/WireImage)
Ronnie Hillman Remembered
Moreover, Hillman’s passing has led to numerous tributes on social media. For instance, the Broncos took to Twitter where they remembered Hillman for his contributions. Additionally, they posted a highlight package of his best plays with the team.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman,” the Broncos wrote. “Soft-spoken with a warm smile and quiet intensity, Ronnie was drafted by the Broncos in 2012 and grew into a dynamic player and well-respected teammate.”
We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman.
Soft-spoken with a warm smile and quiet intensity, Ronnie was drafted by the Broncos in 2012 and grew into a dynamic player and well-respected teammate.
Moreover, numerous notable people throughout the football community spoke about Hillman today. Overall, it is clear that he made a huge impact on everyone he knew.
“Man I love this dude Ronnie Hillman and will miss him forever,” Jay Glazer wrote. “He was one of our first ever players we trained at @unbreakableperformance and we trained together for yearssss. He was as loyal as they come, took my son under his wing.
The NFL subsequently spoke about Hillman’s passing, saying “We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Super Bowl champion RB, Ronnie Hillman.”
Man I love this dude Ronnie Hillman and will miss him forever. He was one of our first ever players we trained at @unbreakableperformance and we trained together for yearssss. He was as loyal as they come, took my son under his wing…. Even though he was quiet he lit the room up. pic.twitter.com/3DOaGqrc2t
Rest in peace, Ronnie Hillman, ex-Bronco RB who has passed after a courageous battle with cancer. My condolences to his family and the Broncos organization. Cancer touches all of us, and we’re deep in the fight via our support of cancer research at the IU-Simon Cancer Center
Overall, this is another tragic loss of a young man. Cancer is horrible, and it has taken way too many lives. Our hearts are with the Hillman family during this difficult time.
Additionally, let us know your favorite Ronnie Hillman moments, in the comments below.
Tragic news is coming out of the NFL today as it was revealed that Ronnie Hillman passed away. He was just 31 years old. Just yesterday, we reported that Hillman had been taken to hospice care as he had been diagnosed with cancer in August. The cancer in question is Renal Medullary Carcinoma which can be extremely aggressive.
Overall, this is an incredibly sad story as it shows just how fragile life can be. Mere months ago, Hillman was healthy, however, his life has been taken much too soon. “Ronnie quietly and peacefully transitioned today in the company of his family and close friends,” his family wrote in a statement.
Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) in action during an NFL AFC Divisional Playoff football game between the Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers , Sunday, January 17, 2016, in Denver, CO. (Photo by Tom Hauck/Getty Images)
Ronnie Hillman’s Career
Throughout the past decade, Hillman had himself a solid NFL career. Although he played for multiple teams, most fans remember his Broncos days. While playing for the team, he ended up winning himself a Super Bowl back in 2016. Additionally, he gained the respect of his teammates, who all said he was amazing guy and teammate.
“We as the family, appreciate the prayers and kind words that have already been expressed,” Hillman’s family subsequently said. “We ask that you would give us time to process our feelings as we prepare to lay our precious RJ to rest.”
Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman sprints down the sideline for a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers Sunday, January 3, 2016 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High Stadium. (Photo By Steve Nehf/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
Additionally, Steelers legend Franco Harris was also lost yesterday. These past two days have been incredibly tragic for the sport of football. Our heart goes out to the Hillman and Harris families.
Stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world.
Some sad news is coming out of the NFL today. It was revealed that former Denver Broncos star Ronnie Hillman is battling cancer. The Super Bowl winner is actually in hospice care, and according to former teammates, his condition is very bad.
In a report from TMZ, it was revealed that Hillman was diagnosed with renal medullary carcinoma. Overall, this is a rare form of cancer that is incredibly hard to beat. It was noted that this cancer “primarily affects young African Americans with sickle cell trait.”
Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman #23 finds a huge hole against the Chicago Bears in their first preseason game at Soldier Field August 11, 2016 in Chicago, IL. (Photo By Joe Amon/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
Ronnie Hillman Gets Support
Hillman is surrounded by family right now, however, they are all very worried about him. His teammates describe him as an amazing human, and the love has been palpable. Following this news, numerous fans and former Broncos players have delivered prayers to Hillman. Additionally, his family is praying for a miracle.
“As a family, we hope beyond hope, and we have faith that can move mountains,” the family said in a statement. “We also understand that God’s will is not always ours; therefore, we as a family subject ourselves to the will of our Almighty God. We need your prayers, but we also need your understanding and respect for Ronnie and our family’s privacy at this time.”
Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) rushes in for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams August 27, 2016 at Sports Authority Field at Mile High Stadium. (Photo By John Leyba/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
This is a truly difficult situation and our heart goes out to the Hillman family during this hard time. Hopefully, Hillman is able to pull through.
Stay tuned to HNHH as this is currently a developing story.
With the 2022 NFL season under a week away, Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson inked a new five years extension that is worth $245 million. $165 million of the new contract is guaranteed.
The new contract is the third-most lucrative contract in NFL history, only trailing deals for DeShaun Watson at $230 million and Kyler Murray at $189.5 million.
“I came here knowing I was going to be ready to play on these two years [left on his contract],” Wilson said to ESPN. “I think to be able to get this done before the season, to have it all done, is just a blessing. And it allows us all to be excited.
“It’s so important to me … to me what’s about is to be able to win championships and have enough space on the salary cap so George can work his magic and we can get guys like Randy Gregory … and other great players. We want to make this a destination location.”
After the news broke, Ciara tweeted in celebration of her husband, stating she is “excited for the journey ahead!”
She also tweeted, “Baby @DangeRussWilson, I am so proud of you! You’re the most dedicated and hardworking person I know! It’s been so beautiful to see you become a Bronco!”
Baby @DangeRussWilson I am so proud of you! You’re the most dedicated and hardworking person I know! It’s been so beautiful to see you become a Bronco! So excited for the journey ahead! You’re 1 of 1! My greatest inspiration. I love you so much! #3 @Broncos#LetsRide
Former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas was revealed to have had stage 2 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) when he died last year in his Georgia home.
A cause of death has yet to be revealed by a University of Boston study that revealed the diagnosis. Thomas’ family believes he died of a seizure.
According to the New York Times, Thomas began to have seizures after a serious car accident in 2019. The effects of the accident, compounded with CTE, had a serious impact on Thomas’ quality of life. Thomas had memory loss, increased paranoia, and wanted to be alone. All are considered signs of CTE.
In his career, Thomas was a four-time Pro Bowler, two-time All-Pro, and won a Super Bowl. he announced his retirement in Summer 2021.
Basketball legend Magic Johnson is joining a bid to become an owner of the Denver Broncos. He’ll join the group being led by Philadelphia 76ers co-owner Josh Harris.
According to Sportico, the NFL has faced increased pressure over the lack of diversity in its ownership ranks. It is speculated that every Broncos bid group is expected to have minority investors included.
It wasn’t made clear how much Johnson would be investing in the bid. He’s already a part owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Broncos are predicted to sell for the highest price ever for a sports team. They recently valued near three-point-eight-billion-dollars.
EXCLUSIVE: Earvin @MagicJohnson is entering the bidding for the Denver Broncos
He has joined the bid group being led by Philadelphia 76ers co-owner Josh Harris pic.twitter.com/SPCVFyrKjY
Two of the most common reasons behind athletes going broke after their professional career: bad investments and money management. On last month’s “I Am Athlete” podcast, guest and retired NFL linebacker D.J. Williams revealed his former financial advisor invested $1.2 million dollars in various bad investments early in his career that included an investment of $300,000 dollars into the music career of former Bad Boy Records artist, Sara Stokes.
“Remember when Puffy Daddy had ‘Making The Band’? Ya’ll remember Sara Stokes? The one … the light-skin girl, ” Williams begins to explain the investment at the podcast’s 22:06 minute mark of season 3 episode 21. “Puffy Daddy had ‘Making The Band,’ there was a young lady on there named Sara Stokes. She was a singer. She was like young, like I don’t want to throw her age out there but she had like three four five kids. All I knew was I invested $300,000 dollars into her music career.”
Williams would claim the investment was in result of leaving his finances to a power of attorney given to his financial advisor while he focused on playing professional football.
“What I’m saying was because of the amount of time and energy that I put into football,” he continued. “I’m going into these meetings and I’m sitting across from this man and I’m taking his word. And I’m just … Okay, yeah, that sounds good, that sounds good. What I’m saying is is if you already a million, relax, chill. Stop trying to rush to become a billionaire.”
Drafted in 2014 – 17th overall by the Denver Broncos – D.J. Williams received a $2.4 million dollar signing bonus his rookie year after signing a five-year deal valued at $9 million dollars – according to Spotrac.com. The linebacker would play ten seasons with the Broncos, earning over $35 million dollars. Williams played 12 seasons in the NFL before retiring in 2014 with the Chicago Bears.
It was never revealed throughout the interview if Williams was ever reimbursed for his investment. Stokes was signed to Bad Boy Records from 2002 to 2005.
Sara Stokes, 44, is a Detroit, Michigan recording artist, actress, journalist, best known as the singer in the former Bad Boy Record’s group Da Band. Formed in 2002, Da Band released their gold-selling debut album, Too Hot For TV, in 2003, which spawned hit songs “Bad Boy This, Bad Boy That” and “Tonight.” The six-member group had their journey documented on reality television for three seasons aired on MTV 2.
After Da Band, Stokes, mother of three, released multiple solo singles, independently, throughout the years, like 2015’s “Sneak Peek” featuring Babs Bunny and 2016’s “Fragile Heart.” Outside music, Stokes embarked in an acting career, known for roles in recent films, The Many (2019), The Enemy (2019) and Facade: Chapter 4.
News of the investment comes during a slew of other trending stories going viral right now surrounding Sean “Love” Combs with old clips from the popular 2000s MTV rap competition series Making the Band, which Combs executive produced, and several former music mogul’s artists releasing public criticism about the harsh treatment they endured their time on the reality show and under Diddy’s Bad Boy Records.
Freddy P, who was Diddy’s first choice when putting together former group Da Band, took to Instagram last week to criticize his former mentor and revealed him responsible for the Florida native’s multiple suicide attempts, all stemming from recounts of his time under Diddy’s tutelage.
“This year alone I’ve contemplated suicide three or four times,” he says in the video. “I done pictured my brother walking in and finding me dead. I cried a few times thinking about leaving my son because I just get tired of life. But no matter what you gotta do you just gotta keep at it … there’s n-ggas that wanna see you fall.”
He added: “Like this n-gga Puffy is the main muthafuckin’ reason why I hate fucking life, dawg. People don’t even understand. Like, I don’t even give a fuck. I’ve never been to a point where I thought of suicide my whole life, never. I mean, I’m a gangsta. I don’t even know how I started thinking like that. I done had it all and I fell to the bottom. How do you come back from that when you battling a giant? It ain’t got nothing to do with your skill no more ’cause your skill is 90 percent better than any n-gga that’s out there right now and the world knows it. But it ain’t your skills … the world is built on relationships.”
Freedy’s rant sparked reactions from fellow Da Band member Babs Bunny, who simply responded in an interview that the group just signed a “shitty contracts,” and Willie Taylor, formerly of the Making of the Band-created R&B group Day 26, who chimed in with the belief that the show and group was set up to “fail.”
The 52-year-old billionaire with ownership in Ciroc and his own television network, Revolt, addressed the claims of his former proteges last Monday via social media. On an Instagram Story, he writes, “STOP ALL YOUR CRYING, BITCHING & MOANING. HUSTLE HARDER OR GET THE FUCK OUT OF OUR WAY. – LOVE.”
All parties involved have not issued a statement on Williams’s revelation at press time.
Watch the latest episode of the I Am Athlete podcast below.
