In a significant development that has reverberated through the NFL community, Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff announced that he is stepping back from coaching to prioritize his health. The 76-year-old, renowned for his expertise in special teams, is facing health challenges, particularly a vision issue that necessitated further medical evaluations.
Decades of Dedication
Westhoff's career has been as diverse as it has been distinguished. Beginning in 1982 as an offensive line and tight ends coach, he quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the sidelines. His specialty, however, was special teams, where his strategic mind and leadership qualities shone bright. Over 33 seasons in the NFL, Westhoff has left an indelible mark on each franchise he worked with, including the Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and ultimately, the Denver Broncos.
His time with the Dolphins stands out, where he spent an unsurpassed 15 seasons refining the team’s play. Later, as the special teams coordinator for the New York Jets from 2001 to 2012, Westhoff was a key figure, even gaining fame with an appearance on HBO's "Hard Knocks" in 2010 during their training camp.
Health First
In the twilight of his career, it was his partnership with Ben Kotwica, initiated when both were on the Jets' staff from 2009 to 2012, that led him to Denver. Together, they managed the Broncos' special teams, striving to bring consistency to a franchise with high aspirations. But health concerns took precedence, prompting Westhoff to make the difficult decision to step back. "It's not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first," he admitted, underscoring the seriousness of his situation.
Westhoff, a cancer survivor, has shown resilience in the face of past health challenges. His indomitable spirit and experience have been invaluable to many, including Rex Ryan, who fondly described him as both a mentor and an 'older brother.'
Broncos' Season at a Crossroads
The Denver Broncos currently find themselves in a delicate position this season. With a record of 5-5, they have stumbled recently, losing two consecutive games ahead of their clash with a formidable Atlanta team that holds a 6-4 record. Despite these setbacks, the Broncos still occupy the seventh and final playoff spot in their conference, a testament to their resilience and potential to turn the season around.
Without Westhoff's guiding hand, there is no doubt the Broncos will need to recalibrate and rally. His absence will be felt not only on the field but also in the locker room, where his presence and wisdom inspired players and staff alike.
His parting humor — "Gee, thanks. I'm not old. I think he looks older than me." — is classic Westhoff, offering a glimpse into the camaraderie and warmth he brought everywhere he went. It is this very approachability combined with his tactical acumen that made him a beloved figure across the NFL.
Legacy of Excellence
Westhoff's legacy is not easily quantified. It isn’t merely in the stats or the win-loss records but in the countless players he mentored and the professional relationships he fostered over decades. Whether on the sidelines or through his contributions as a regular analyst post-retirement, his insights and experience have enriched the league.
As Westhoff steps away to focus on his health, the Denver Broncos and the broader NFL community undoubtedly wish him well. His story reminds us all of the sacrifices coaches make for the game and the vital importance of balancing professional commitments with personal well-being. While he may be stepping back now, Mike Westhoff's legacy will surely continue to influence and inspire for years to come.