The Denver Broncos have appointed Colorado defensive coordinator Robert Livingston as their new defensive passing game coordinator, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This move marks Livingston’s return to the NFL after several years in college coaching.
Chris Marve to Take Over Defensive Coordinator Role at Colorado
Following Livingston’s departure, Colorado hired Chris Marve, previously a linebackers coach since December, to fill the defensive coordinator position. Marve brings experience from his recent tenure as Virginia Tech’s defensive coordinator over the last three seasons, adding depth to the coaching staff.
Livingston’s Coaching Journey and NFL Experience
Before joining Colorado, Livingston spent over a decade with the Cincinnati Bengals, starting as a scout in 2012 and advancing to safeties coach by 2016. His move back to the NFL aligns with expectations head coach Deion Sanders had when Livingston was initially hired, anticipating a potential return to professional football.
Impact on Colorado Football and Defensive Challenges
Colorado’s defense struggled significantly last season, conceding 425.7 yards per game, ranking 121st nationally, and allowing 30.5 points per game, placing 111th in scoring defense. The loss of two-way star Travis Hunter added to Colorado’s defensive woes. Sanders publicly criticized the defense after a loss to Georgia Tech and worked actively in the transfer portal to strengthen the roster, acquiring players such as Texas linebacker Liona Lefau, Tennessee safety Boo Carter, and Bowling Green linebacker Gideon Lampron.
Strategic Coordination and Future Outlook for Both Teams
Livingston’s ascent in the professional ranks follows a pattern seen recently with his predecessor Jim Leonhard, who took a defensive coordinator role with the Buffalo Bills last month. Colorado’s quick replacement with Marve suggests Sanders anticipated Livingston’s departure. Although the timing is late in the college coaching cycle, the decision is unlikely to disrupt Colorado’s defensive plans significantly as the transfer portal is already closed. For Livingston, joining the Broncos offers a platform to further his NFL coaching career and contribute to a key defensive role in Denver.
“Based on Wednesday’s move, Livingston aspires to climb the pro coaching ladder, and accepting a role in Denver could help him achieve that.” – Pete Thamel, ESPN
Broncos are hiring Colorado defensive coordinator Robert Livingston as their defensive pass game coordinator, per source. This move now reunites Livingston with Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, whom he previously worked with on the Bengals’ staff. pic.twitter.com/VXTvrE3mgC
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 25, 2026
Colorado will promote Chris Marve to defensive coordinator, source confirms to ESPN. He was the Buffs linebackers coach and is the former DC at Virginia Tech. https://t.co/zR9LiEE9DW
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) February 25, 2026
