ENGLEWOOD, Colo — Christian Parker had been with the Broncos for three seasons. Which, incredulously, made him the team's longest-tenured coach this past season.
There won't be a fourth year. Sources confirmed to 9NEWS that Parker is leaving his position as Broncos defensive backs coach to join the Philadelphia Eagles, whose defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, hired Parker for the Broncos in 2021.
Parker, 32, had been the only position coach who worked for Broncos head coaches Fangio in 2021, Nathaniel Hackett in 2022 and Sean Payton in 2023.
The Broncos could have blocked Parker from joining the Eagles, but Payton allowed the up-and-coming coach to receive a greater opportunity. Parker's title with the Eagles is still being worked out.
Despite his youth and relative inexperience -- his three years in Denver are his only three years as a position coach -- Parker in recent weeks interviewed for defensive coordinator openings in New England and Green Bay. He didn't get those jobs, but Parker will now be advancing in Philadelphia.
With the Broncos, Parker was especially instrumental in developing cornerback Pat Surtain II, who in his three seasons has made two Pro Bowls and one All Pro team. Broncos safety Justin Simmons was also well-decorated as he three times was named second-team All Pro during Parker's three seasons.
Undrafted nickelback Ja'Quan McMillian and safety P.J. Locke also had breakout years in 2023.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Sports
> Watch 9NEWS original shows, live Colorado news and weather updates, daily forecasts, and sports coverage for free on the 9NEWS+ app on Roku and Fire TV.
