As expected, Jack Del Rio will hold down the fort as the Denver Broncos interim head coach, while John Fox recovers from a heart valve procedure.
Broncos announce Jack Del Rio is their interim head coach, as expected. Players were notified at a team meeting this morning
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) November 4, 2013
Like Fox, Del Rio is a defensive-minded coach, and the two good friends seem to think alike. John Elway ultimately decided Del Rio was the best option as Fox recovers.
“He will take a leave of absence from coaching for at least the next several weeks,” the Broncos said in a statement on Saturday. “Our focus at this time is Coach Fox’s health and well-being. We extend our thoughts and well-wishes to him for a full and speedy recovery.
“Coach Fox was advised by doctors months ago that his defective aortic valve would require this procedure following the 2013 season. As part of his trip to North Carolina over the bye week, he had a preoperative appointment on Thursday with his doctor, who informed him to seek medical attention immediately if he felt any discomfort.”