Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff has announced that he is stepping back from coaching due to health concerns. At 76 years of age, Westhoff has been compelled to prioritize his well-being, driven in part by recent vision issues that necessitated additional medical evaluations. As a respected figure in the NFL for over three decades, this decision marks a significant moment in his storied career.
A Storied Career
Westhoff's journey in the NFL began in 1982 when he served as an offensive line and tight ends coach. However, it is his prowess in coaching special teams that has cemented his status as one of the best in the business. Over an impressive 33-season span in the league, he left an indelible mark on multiple teams. His coaching career included stints with the Indianapolis Colts from 1982 to 1984, a substantial 15-season period with the Miami Dolphins from 1986 to 2000, and a notable tenure with the New York Jets from 2001 to 2012. In 2018, he further added to his credentials by joining the New Orleans Saints for a season.
Westhoff's contributions have not only been acknowledged by his peers but have also inspired them. Rex Ryan, a former head coach of the Jets during Westhoff's time there, openly refers to him as both a mentor and an 'older brother'—a testament to the bond and respect shared within the coaching ranks.
A Personal Health Battle
The decision to step back isn't Westhoff’s first encounter with adversity. He is a survivor, having battled cancer, which he overcame with his characteristic resilience and determination. However, his recent health scare served as a stark reminder of prioritizing one's health, a lesson he underscored with a candid admission: "It's not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first."
His move also affects the Denver Broncos, where he has been partnering with Ben Kotwica in overseeing the special teams. The collaboration between Westhoff and Kotwica isn't new; it dates back to their time with the New York Jets, where they worked together from 2009 to 2012. This synergy was crucial to the Broncos' performance, as evidenced by their current position in the league standings.
Impact on the Denver Broncos
The Broncos, who stand at a 5-5 record, have faced recent challenges, including back-to-back losses ahead of their matchup against Atlanta. As they hold the seventh and final playoff spot in their conference, the impact of Westhoff's absence is a looming uncertainty. Atlanta, with a 6-4 record, presents a formidable opposition and will test the resilience of the Broncos’ coaching and strategic dynamics without Westhoff’s seasoned presence on the sideline.
Westhoff's influence extended beyond the strategic realm; he became a recognizable figure in the broader sporting narrative, notably appearing in HBO's "Hard Knocks" during the Jets' 2010 training camp. This exposure further highlighted his role not just as a coach but as a personality who enriched the NFL's narrative fabric with his expertise and charisma.
Legacy of Leadership
As Westhoff steps back, his journey and contribution to football remain unparalleled. From his early days focusing on offensive lines and tight ends to his world-class special teams strategies, his imprint on the game is etched in the histories of the teams he guided. His humor remains intact, as exemplified by his playful retort regarding Rex Ryan's affectionate jabs: "Gee, thanks. I'm not old. I think he looks older than me."
In the realm of professional sports, where change is a constant, Westhoff’s legacy is a reminder of the enduring impact of dedication, expertise, and personal strength. His career, spanning various teams and countless memorable moments, continues to inspire both current and aspiring coaches within the league.
While the Broncos chart their course ahead, the lessons and wisdom imparted by Westhoff will undoubtedly continue to influence the franchise, underscoring the essence of his enduring legacy in the world of professional football.