DENVER — The Denver Summit today named Scott Harwood head coach and Allen Cross defensive coordinator, bringing more than 65 combined years of coaching experience — including 34 NFL seasons — to the franchise's sideline.

"The NFL's restructuring put a generation of championship-caliber coaches on the market in a single week," said owner Lila Grant. "That does not happen twice. Colton Rigsbee and Brock Tullis are fine football men who did good work for us, and they will land well — I'll be rooting for them. But an expansion franchise gets one chance to seize a moment like this, and I owed Denver that chance."

Harwood spent 17 years in the NFL as a linebackers coach, defensive coordinator, and assistant head coach, building disciplined units and developing assistants who rose to prominent jobs of their own. A Cedar Rapids native and former Northern Iowa linebacker, he is a teacher first — calm under pressure, unwavering in his standards.

"Championships are built on accountability, preparation, and consistency — not hype," said Harwood. "I intend to give Denver a team that shows up prepared every single week."

Cross brings 17 NFL seasons as a linebackers coach and coordinator. A Pittsburgh-area product and former Slippery Rock linebacker, his defenses are known for sound tackling, disciplined gap assignments, and relentless effort.

"I want to coach football," said Cross. "Denver gave me a defense to build and the backing to build it right. That's all I've ever asked for."

Offensive Coordinator Jamarcus Ellison-Bey remains in his role, pairing his timing-based attack with No. 1 overall pick Evander Holt.

"Denver, you have my word," Grant added. "This franchise will never be too proud, too comfortable, or too slow to do what it takes to win for you."

Media Contact: Denver Summit Communications
press@denversummit.dfl