His contributions and legacy will continue to impact the team and the broader NFL community.
The Denver Broncos have bid farewell to
assistant head coach and special teams
coordinator Mike Westhoff, who stepped
down from Sean Payton’s staff on
November 12 due to vision-related
health concerns. Westhoff, age 76, began
experiencing vision problems a few
weeks prior, initially downplaying the
symptoms. However, following recurring
issues, he consulted with medical
professionals who advised him to
prioritize his health.
Westhoff shared a heartfelt message with
fans via X (formerly Twitter) on
November 13, expressing gratitude and
reassuring them of his condition. “I want
to assure you I’m ok, my body gave me a
warning this week, and I had to listen
and put my health first,” he posted.
Westhoff’s long-standing presence in the
NFL, spanning over 40 years, leaves an
indelible mark, especially as one of the
most respected special teams coaches.
Broncos head coach Sean Payton, who
also worked with Westhoff during his
tenure with the New Orleans Saints,
addressed the coach’s departure with
reverence and concern. “He’s kind of a
tough sucker,” Payton said, noting
Westhoff’s resilience. After seeking
medical treatment and undergoing
scans, Westhoff decided, along with the
team, that stepping away was the best
course of action.
Payton emphasized that Westhoff’s
career warrants Hall of Fame
consideration—a rare recognition for
assistant coaches. Known for his
impactful tenure with teams like the
Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts, Miami
Dolphins, and New York Jets, Westhoff is
celebrated for his strategic approach to
special teams. His work has elevated
units across the league, with the Broncos
in 2023 ranking among the top in
categories such as punt and kickoff
return averages.
In recent years, Westhoff contributed
significantly to the Broncos, including
the development of rookie kick returner
Marvin Mims Jr., whose stellar
performance earned him a second-team
All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection.
Westhoff’s coaching acumen also shone
through during his time with the Saints,
where his special teams consistently
ranked in the NFL’s top 10 across various
metrics.
Westhoff’s departure is the second time
this season that the Broncos have had to
adjust due to health issues on the
coaching staff. In October, pass-game
coordinator Zach Grossi took time off to
undergo cancer treatment. Both coaches
remain closely connected with the team
as they focus on recovery.
Although Westhoff was more of a
consultant than a full-time coordinator
with the Broncos, his influence is
evident. Ben Kotwica, the team’s special
teams coordinator, will continue
overseeing the unit. As the Broncos move
forward without Westhoff on the
sidelines, his contributions and legacy
will continue to impact the team and the
broader NFL community.
