Joe Ellis confirms Broncos granted permission to interview Chicago's Champ Kelly for GM role

[Miles]

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Broncos have received permission to interview Champ Kelly for their open general manager position, President and CEO Joe Ellis confirmed Tuesday.


Kelly, the assistant director of player personnel for the Chicago Bears, spent eight years with the Broncos from 2007-14 in a variety of roles, including as the assistant director of pro personnel.


Kelly also worked with Head Coach Vic Fangio in Chicago when Fangio was the Bears' defensive coordinator from 2015-18.


"I got to know Champ from my Chicago days and Champ is a very capable guy," Fangio told DenverBroncos.com's Phil Milani this week. "He's one of many that we will consider."


Ellis declined to name any other potential candidates or the team's GM job on Tuesday.


"At this point, people are under contract and if we ask permission, we've got to get it," Ellis said. "I don't think it's appropriate based on the rules — the anti-tampering — that I mention candidates at this point."


Ellis said the Broncos' search committee will begin with interviews over Zoom. The Broncos may then hold follow-up interviews in person, which Ellis said the team is permitted to do according to the NFL's COVID protocols.


"I think it's important to get together [in person]," Ellis said.


For more on the Broncos' general manager search, click here.