Mike Westhoff Takes a Step Back from Coaching Due to Health Concerns
Mike Westhoff, a revered figure in NFL coaching circles, is stepping back from his role as assistant head coach with the Denver Broncos. At 76, and following a series of health scares—including recent vision issues which prompted further medical evaluations—Westhoff has decided to prioritize his well-being.
“It’s not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first,” Westhoff stated, underscoring the gravity of his situation and the responsible decision to focus on health at this juncture in his life.
A Storied Career in the NFL
Westhoff’s career in the NFL began back in 1982 as an offensive line and tight ends coach, but it is his work with special teams that firmly etches his name in the annals of professional football history. Spanning a remarkable 33 seasons, Westhoff’s journey took him through coaching stints with the Indianapolis Colts (1982-1984), Miami Dolphins (1986-2000), and New York Jets (2001-2012).
He even made a brief but impactful return to coaching with the New Orleans Saints for the 2018 season. Throughout his career, Westhoff has been widely respected not only for his technical expertise but also for the mentorship roles he naturally undertook within his various teams.
Rex Ryan, a fellow coaching peer, aptly described Westhoff as both a mentor and an ‘older brother,’ a testament to the bonds he forged and the wisdom he imparted over the years. Despite his seniority, Westhoff has always maintained a youthful spirit, humorously quipping, “Gee, thanks. I’m not old. I think he looks older than me,” regarding his relationship with Ryan.
Partnership with Ben Kotwica
More recently, Westhoff had been partnering with Ben Kotwica to lead the Broncos’ special teams. Their collaboration isn’t new; the duo previously worked together on the New York Jets’ staff from 2009 to 2012. Westhoff’s wealth of experience has undoubtedly been an asset to the Broncos, providing a steady and knowledgeable hand to guide their special teams unit.
Denver Broncos’ Season and the Road Ahead
This season, the Denver Broncos have had a turbulent run, holding a 5-5 record, with two consecutive losses clouding their upcoming matchup against Atlanta, a team currently at 6-4. As the Broncos cling to the seventh and final playoff spot in their conference, Westhoff’s absence could be keenly felt, not just in the strategic setup of the special teams units, but in the locker room where his presence has been a source of stability and motivation.
A Resilient Life and Career
Westhoff’s decision to step back is part of a broader narrative of resilience. He is a cancer survivor, having battled significant health hurdles before. His determination and perseverance have been an inspiration to many, framing him not just as a coach but as a testament to the human spirit's ability to push through adversity. His appearance on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” in 2010 during the Jets' training camp showcased this resilient spirit to a wider audience, endearing him further to fans and colleagues alike.
As Mike Westhoff steps back from the sidelines, his legacy is more than just the teams he coached or the games won; it’s the lives he touched and the standards he set for others in the league. The NFL will certainly feel his absence, but there remains a chance for this seasoned sage to regroup and perhaps return in another capacity further down the line, not unlike his previous comebacks.
For now, however, Mike Westhoff’s well-being takes priority, as he makes the health-conscious decision to step away, leaving behind an indelible mark on the sport he so dearly loves.