The Denver Broncos fired first-year coach Nathaniel Hackett on Monday, one day after an ugly 51-14 loss to the Los Angeles Rams dropped the team to 4-11.
Broncos CEO Greg Penner released a statement thanking Hackett for his efforts.
"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. "This change was made now out of respect for everyone involved and allows us to immediately begin the search for a new head coach."
Hackett, 43, was hired on Jan.