Mike Westhoff Steps Back from Coaching Amid Health Concerns
In a significant development for the Denver Broncos and the NFL coaching community, veteran coach Mike Westhoff is stepping back from his duties due to health concerns. The assistant head coach, whose career spans an impressive 33 seasons in the NFL, has been grappling with recent vision issues that prompted further medical evaluations.
At 76, Westhoff made what he described as a tough but necessary decision. "It's not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first," he stated. The acknowledgment of his health status marks a pivotal point in a storied career that has left an indelible mark on the league, particularly in the realm of special teams coaching.
A Storied Career
Westhoff's coaching journey began in 1982 as an offensive line and tight ends coach with the Indianapolis Colts, where he remained until 1984. He further solidified his reputation during a lengthy tenure with the Miami Dolphins from 1986 to 2000, showcasing his ability to innovate and lead special teams units over 15 seasons.
His expertise was further honed with the New York Jets, where he coached from 2001 to 2012. It was during this time that Westhoff became a familiar face to millions of fans through his appearances on HBO's "Hard Knocks" in 2010, during the Jets' training camp. His dynamic style and strategic acumen became hallmarks of his coaching ethos.
Westhoff's career also included a stint with the New Orleans Saints for the 2018 season. Throughout his journey, he became more than just a coach; he emerged as a mentor to many, including former Jets head coach Rex Ryan, who once referred to him as both a mentor and an "older brother."
A Resilient Figure
Notably, Westhoff is a cancer survivor, a testament to his resilience both on and off the field. His resolve in facing personal health challenges has underscored his approach to coaching, serving as an inspiration to players and fellow coaches alike.
His recent responsibilities with the Denver Broncos involved partnering with Ben Kotwica to oversee the team's special teams. The two shared a collaborative history from their time together on the Jets' staff between 2009 and 2012, marking a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared coaching philosophies.
The Current Landscape for the Broncos
His announcement comes at a critical juncture for the Broncos, who are trying to navigate a see-saw season with a current 5-5 record. Following two consecutive losses, they find themselves gearing up for a potentially pivotal clash against the Atlanta Falcons, a team holding a slightly higher standing at 6-4. The Broncos, holding the seventh and final playoff spot in their conference, are acutely aware of the stakes involved and the importance of solidifying their strategy in the games ahead.
Westhoff's decision to prioritize his health highlights an inevitable aspect of any career: recognizing moments when personal well-being must take precedence. As Westhoff adjusts to life away from the daily grind of NFL coaching, his legacy as a tactical mastermind and a nurturing figure who helped mold many successful special teams units will persist.
"Gee, thanks. I'm not old. I think he looks older than me," he quipped, displaying his characteristic humor even as he addresses a serious life transition. This good-natured remark encapsulates the enduring spirit with which Westhoff has approached both life's challenges and the game he loves.
As the Broncos continue their campaign, the absence of Westhoff's guiding presence will surely be felt, yet his influence undoubtedly continues to shape the ethos of the team. The football community now rallies around him as he steps aside, honoring a career that not only advanced the game but also touched countless lives along the way.