JOSH MCDANIELS NEW BRONCOS HEAD COACH

Josh McDaniels agrees to a four-year deal with the Denver Broncos today. The man who ran the New England Patriots' high-scoring offense is taking over. McDaniels, the Patriots' 32-year-old offensive coordinator, agreed to a four-year deal to replace Mike Shanahan, who was fired Dec. 30 after 14 seasons with a 146-91 record. "Josh McDaniels is one of the finest people and brightest, most talented coaches I have ever worked with," New England coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. "Since joining us eight years ago, Josh performed a variety of roles and excelled in every one of them." Cornerback Dre' Bly was one of many Broncos players excited about the team's new head coach. "That's enthusiasm, man," Bly said, according to the Rocky Mountain News. "Coach Shanahan had a lot of respect. Guys looked up to him and had a good relationship. But with a guy like him, it's like with [Broncos assistant] Jeremy Bates -- exciting, enthusiasm. It's like what Mike Tomlin brings to Pittsburgh. He brings excitement to that team. It's good for our team. And I hope we respond to him." McDaniels reportedly already has started filling his staff with the Broncos. NFL.com reported that former 49ers head coach Mike Nolan is expected to join Denver as the team's defensive coordinator. AP