A Storied Career Pausing for Health: Mike Westhoff Steps Back
In a move that has sent ripples through the NFL coaching community, Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff has announced that he will step back from coaching due to health concerns. At 76, the revered coach has decided to prioritize his well-being after recent vision issues prompted further medical evaluations.
Westhoff’s journey in the NFL is one steeped in legacy and resilience. With a career commencement in 1982, serving as an offensive line and tight ends coach, Westhoff has spent an admirable 33 seasons shaping the league’s special teams landscape. His enduring commitment to the game saw him begin his prominent coaching path with the Indianapolis Colts from 1982 to 1984 before embarking on a 15-year tenure with the Miami Dolphins from 1986 to 2000.
The avid strategist and special teams wizard also served with the New York Jets from 2001 to 2012. His collaboration with Ben Kotwica on the Jets staff from 2009 to 2012 laid the foundation for their eventual partnership at the Broncos. Post his stint with New York, Westhoff lent his expertise to the New Orleans Saints during the 2018 season. His triumphs and struggles, including his brave battle with cancer, have marked his career with strength and determination.
Westhoff’s contributions to the NFL have not gone unnoticed. He’s widely praised, including by Rex Ryan, who affectionately described Westhoff both as a mentor and a sibling figure. Westhoff chuckled about the age dynamic in their relationship, quipping, "Gee, thanks. I'm not old. I think he looks older than me."
The Denver Broncos found themselves fortunate to call upon Westhoff's veteran prowess, partnering him again with Kotwica to oversee their special teams. This dynamic duo reunited from their Jets days—strategies and synergy revived but now helming the Broncos’ charge.
Yet, amid the grind of sportsmanship and strategy, health remains paramount. Westhoff candidly reflected on his decision, illustrating the balancing act between passion and personal care: "It's not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first." His choice serves as a reminder of the human aspect behind the sidelines, of seasoned professionals navigating life both within and beyond the field.
As the Broncos currently stand at a 5-5 record, their journey this season has been one of ebb and flow. Though perched at the seventh and final playoff spot in their conference, they return to the field with the weight of recent back-to-back losses looming over their encounter with a 6-4 Atlanta. Observers and fans alike feel Westhoff’s absence, but the groundwork he laid continues to underpin the team’s resolve.
While his immediate focus deviates from playbooks and film study, Mike Westhoff’s footprint on the game remains indelible. His leadership and innovative brilliance consistently pushed special teams into the spotlight, capturing the NFL ethos far beyond tactical maneuvers. His presence on HBO's "Hard Knocks" during the Jets’ 2010 training camp showcased his lively character and profound insights, endearing him to players and audiences alike.
In this new chapter, the community rallies in support, wishing Westhoff strength and health as he steps back to take care of himself. His departure, although temporary, is a poignant reminder of the invaluable role coaches like him play, not just in shaping games but in mentoring generations of athletes and cross-generational staff. The sideline will surely await his return, but for now, a legend takes a much-needed respite.