ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff has resigned due to health concerns.
The 76-year-old Westhoff experienced vision problems starting last Wednesday, team sources told ESPN Tuesday night. After undergoing tests including an MRI and consulting with doctors, Westhoff decided to step away from coaching in recent days.
“This decision wasn’t easy, but it was a wake-up call that I need to prioritize my health,” Westhoff said in a prepared statement.
“I’m grateful to Sean for giving me the opportunity to contribute to this first-class organization and wish the Broncos all the best.”
Westhoff, a long-time special teams coach, had rejoined Sean Payton’s staff last year after returning from retirement. He previously worked with Payton on the New Orleans Saints staff in 2017 and 2018.
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Westhoff collaborated daily with Broncos special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica and assistant special teams coach Chris Banjo, who excelled as a Saints special teams player under Westhoff in New Orleans. The pair had also worked together on the New York Jets’ staff from 2009 to 2012 under coach Rex Ryan.
Westhoff is considered one of the most experienced special teams coaches in the league since joining the Indianapolis Colts staff in 1982. He held the position of special teams coach for the Miami Dolphins for 15 years and the Jets for 12 seasons.
He successfully overcame cancer, undergoing multiple surgeries, including treatment for cancer in his femur.
Denver Broncos Assistant Coach Mike Westhoff Resigns Due to Health Issues
The Denver Broncos announced the resignation of longtime assistant coach Mike Westhoff earlier this week, citing health concerns as the driving factor behind his decision. This news comes as a significant blow to the team, particularly after their disappointing 2023 season.
Westhoff, known for his expertise in special teams coaching, had been with the Broncos organization since 2017. His contributions were instrumental in shaping one of the NFL’s most formidable special teams units throughout his tenure.
A Legacy of Success in Special Teams Coaching
Mike Westhoff is a veteran coach with an impressive track record, spanning over three decades in the NFL. He was widely regarded as one of the league’s top special teams coaches and earned recognition for his innovative strategies and ability to develop talent.
Westhoff’s Impact on Special Teams
- Enhanced Return Games: Westhoff consistently developed potent return game threats, maximizing offensive opportunities through strategic plays.
- Dominant Coverage Units: His coaching philosophy emphasized disciplined and aggressive coverage, limiting opponent scoring through punt and kick returns
- Effective Field Position Management: Westhoff’s units were consistently adept at pinning opponents deep, granting the offense advantageous starting field positions.
A Difficult Decision Fueled by Health Concerns
While Westhoff’s decision to step away from coaching is undoubtedly a loss for the Broncos and the NFL community as a whole, his health takes precedence. The specific nature of his health issues has not been publicly disclosed, but it is clear that they necessitate this career shift.
The Broncos Moving Forward
The departure of Mike Westhoff leaves a void in the Denver Broncos coaching staff. General Manager George Paton and Head Coach Sean Payton will now face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement who can maintain the high standards set by Westhoff. The team will undoubtedly look for a coach with a proven track record in special teams development, strategic planning, and the ability to inspire players.
Looking Back on a Distinguished Career
Despite his resignation, Mike Westhoff’s legacy as a coaching legend within the NFL remains secure. His dedication to the game, innovative tactics, and impact on countless players will be long remembered.
