Mike Westhoff Steps Back from Coaching
In a surprising yet understandable turn of events, Denver Broncos' assistant head coach, Mike Westhoff, has announced his decision to step back from coaching due to health concerns. This decision marks a significant moment in the life of a man who has contributed over three decades to the National Football League (NFL), leaving a distinguished legacy characterized by resilience, tactical expertise, and a deep passion for the game.
At 76, Westhoff finds himself at a crossroads, compelled by health concerns that demand his immediate attention. Recent vision issues necessitated further medical evaluations, prompting this quintessential football tactician 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 candidly shared, encapsulating the oft-overlooked personal sacrifices coaches make behind the scenes.
A Storied Career
Westhoff's career began humbly in 1982 when he ventured into professional coaching as an offensive line and tight ends coach. However, it was in coaching special teams where he truly found his niche. Over 33 seasons in the NFL, Westhoff became synonymous with special teams innovation and excellence. His journey through the league saw him impart his strategic prowess to the Indianapolis Colts from 1982 to 1984, and later, he left an indelible mark during a 15-season tenure with the Miami Dolphins from 1986 to 2000.
The New York Jets beckoned next, where Westhoff remained a fixture from 2001 to 2012. Under his stewardship, the Jets' special teams shone, and his time with the team was notably highlighted during the 2010 season, when he appeared on HBO's "Hard Knocks." It was during his Jets stint that he forged a long-standing collaboration with Ben Kotwica, a relationship that would be rekindled with the Broncos. Together, they spearheaded the Broncos' special teams efforts.
In 2018, Westhoff joined the New Orleans Saints, further cementing his role as a revered figure in the NFL. Throughout his career, he not only honed the skills of players but also guided young coaches, earning him the admiration of peers such as Rex Ryan, who affectionately called him both a mentor and an "older brother."
Triumph Over Adversity
Westhoff's legacy extends beyond the field, characterized by an extraordinary personal resilience. A cancer survivor, he stands as a testament to battling life's adversities with the same tenacity he demonstrated in his professional career. It is this spirit that has driven him to excel, and it is perhaps this same tenacity that has led him to take a step back now, placing his health above all else.
Amidst concerns over his health, Westhoff's sense of humor remains intact, evidenced by his light-hearted remark, "Gee, thanks. I'm not old. I think he looks older than me." His humor is as much a fixture of his character as his coaching acumen, and it perhaps serves as a comforting coping mechanism during this transition.
The Broncos' Current Standing
Westhoff’s departure occurs at a pivotal time for the Denver Broncos. The team currently holds a record of 5-5, grappling with consecutive losses as they prepare to face off against a formidable opponent, the Atlanta Falcons, who sit at 6-4. Despite these challenges, the Broncos maintain the seventh and final playoff spot in their conference, a testament to the foundations laid by coaches like Westhoff.
As Westhoff steps back to focus on his health, the Broncos—and indeed the wider NFL community—pause to appreciate the impact of a man whose contributions have shaped teams, nurtured talent, and inspired countless within the sport. Mike Westhoff's legacy is not merely written in statistics or victories; it is etched in the hearts of players, coaches, and fans who have witnessed his unwavering commitment and passion for the game.
While his presence on the sidelines may be missed, the lessons he imparted and the standards he set will undoubtedly continue to influence the game, echoing through the halls of every team he graced with his formidable expertise. As the football world rallies to support him, Mike Westhoff’s indomitable spirit shines brightly, reminding us all of the enduring power of perseverance and prioritizing health, even in the face of profound dedication to one’s craft.