Wade Phillips has brought life, energy and aggression to an already talented Broncos defense. Now, they are the best in the league. (Stephen Dunn, Getty Images)
There’s no question what the Broncos calling card has been this season – defense.
The man behind all the magic was honored Thursday as defensive coordinator Wade Phillips was named co-assistant coach of the year by the Pro Football Writers of America.
Phillips shared the honor with former Bengals offensive coordinator and current Browns head coach Hue Jackson.
The Broncos led the NFL in total defense (283.1 yards per game), passing defense (199.6 yards per game) and sacks (52).
Phillips also led the No. 3 ranked run defense and No. 4 scoring defense. Defensive ends Derek Wolfe and Malik Jackson, safety Darian Stewart and linebacker Brandon Marshall are among the players that have had their best season under Phillips.
The veteran coach joined coach Gary Kubiak’s staff and was arguably their best offseason acquisition.
It’s the first time a Broncos assistant has received the honor, but this is Phillips’ second time receiving the award. He also was honored in 2011 as Houston’s defensive coordinator.
Phillips joins Dom Capers (Steelers, 1994; Jaguars, 1999) and Dick Lebeau (Steelers, 2004 and 2008) as the only two-time winners of the award.
