Denver Broncos coach Kubiak stepping down, as 49ers and Chargers fire coaches in NFL shakeup

Broncos coach Gary Kubiak is stepping down for health reaons — (Image credit: Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

The San Francisco 49ers and San Diego Chargers fired their head coaches on Sunday following losing seasons, and Denver Broncos coach Gary Kubiak informed his team he is stepping down despite a winning 24-11 record in Denver — including the 2016 Super Bowl — and the Broncos' win over the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. "In all honesty, I've struggled this year," said Kubiak, alluding to health problems that include migraines and fatigue. "I'm glad we sent him off with a win," said Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian. "You can't kill yourself over this game," added cornerback Chris Harris Jr.

Chargers head coach Mike McCoy was fired after a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, capping a second consecutive year at the bottom of the AFC West and third season not making the playoffs. The 49ers fired both coach Chip Kelly and general manager Trent Baalke after Sunday's narrow loss to the Seattle Seahawks and a dismal 2-14 season.

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Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.