Josh McDaniels, 32, is a little younger than Shanahan but is a well-respected offensive mind coming from a franchise that had championship success. For McDaniels, he was offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots. Shanahan came to Denver after guiding San Francisco's offense to a Super Bowl title.

Although hiring a defensive coach to fix the problems on that side of the ball made logical sense, Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said he didn't want to pass up the chance to hire the talented McDaniels.

"The chance to hire this young man was very intriguing to me," Bowlen said.

McDaniels' first move was to hire former 49ers coach Mike Nolan as the team's new defensive coordinator, which should help. McDaniels also said even though he has an offensive background, he will have a say in repairing the defense.

"I'm a football coach and I want to have an opportunity to affect the kicking game, defense, offense, every phase of the game," McDaniels said. "My goal as the head coach is not just to improve the defense, it's to improve the team."

The good news for McDaniels is the Broncos have some pieces in place. They were 8-5 at one point last season before losing their final three, and the offense has some talent. McDaniels said he was struck by the culture of winning that Bowlen has cultivated through his quarter century as owner.

"This is an opportunity that doesn't come along very often," McDaniels said. "I know I'm coming to a place where winning is the most important thing."

Although McDaniels' youth could provide some benefits, such as connecting with the younger players, he is incredibly young. According to the Broncos, he is the fifth-youngest head coach at the time of hire in NFL history, and the youngest in the league. Bowlen said he had no problem with that and McDaniels didn't think it would be an issue.

"I've coached older players -- I don't think age is a factor," McDaniels said. "What they care about is what I'm saying and whether or not it's going to help them win."