AFC Notes: Bengals, Broncos, Browns

Bengals

• Tom Pelissero of NFL Media mentions that Bengals special teams coordinators Darrin Simmons and Brayden Coombs are set to be free agents after the season.

Broncos

• Broncos veteran OLB Von Miller made it clear he expects to be in Denver for the foreseeable future: “I said before the week, I’m tied to the Denver Broncos. It’s pro sports and we all know things can change here and there. But for me and my mindset, it’s a marriage and I’m not looking forward to divorcing anytime soon.” (Nicki Jhabvala)
• Broncos QB Drew Lock said of his offseason plans: “I’m going to stay most of time here in Denver. Then we’re going to get w/receivers a couple times to throw with them, be ready so we don’t come back and look like we threw it to each other for first time. I’m going to spend most of my time here.” (Mike Klis)
• According to Troy Renck, the Broncos have spoken to S Justin Simmons‘ representatives about a new contract, but there is nothing active right now in terms of negotiations. Renck mentions that the Broncos still have the option of franchising Simmons next year and they’re “determined to keep him in the fold.”
• James Palmer reports that the Broncos’ front office is “very pleased” with HC Vic Fangio‘s performance in his first year with the team and is “on the same page” with GM John Elway.

Browns

Browns TE David Njoku said he isn’t sure if he’ll be back in Cleveland if HC Freddie Kitchens remains the head coach. 

“That’s a good question,’’ Njoku said, via Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “I don’t want to answer that yet. I’m not sure, so no comment.”

Regarding his disagreement with Kitchens in Week 14 that led to Njoku being a healthy scratch the past two games, the tight end said he “obviously” wants to play but is still unsure if he will appear in Week 17. 

“Obviously I want to be out there giving it my all with my teammates, but under whatever condition, I’m a healthy scratch for the second week in a row. Here we are last game, and I’m still unsure whether I’m allowed to play or not. It’s tough, but it’s not up to me.’’

• Two NFL sources tell Michael Lombardi that they expect more than just a head coaching change from the Browns.