In a poignant turn of events, Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff has chosen to step away from the world of football coaching due to pressing health concerns. At 76, Westhoff finds himself faced with unexpected vision issues that necessitate further medical attention. This decision marks a pause in a storied career that has contributed significantly to the NFL, particularly in the realm of special teams coaching.
Westhoff's football journey commenced in 1982 with the Indianapolis Colts as an offensive line and tight ends coach, swiftly carving a niche for himself in the high-stakes world of the NFL. However, it was in special teams that Westhoff truly cemented his legacy. Over 33 remarkable seasons, he brought his prowess to bear with teams like the Miami Dolphins, the New York Jets, and the New Orleans Saints, etching his name into the annals of NFL history.
Of note, Westhoff's tenure in the NFL saw him guiding and mentoring players and fellow coaches alike. With the Dolphins from 1986 to 2000, he spent a staggering 15 seasons crafting a special teams legacy that would be the envy of many. His move to the New York Jets in 2001 further amplified his reputation, lasting until 2012. During these years, his collaboration with Ben Kotwica from 2009 to 2012 was a noteworthy partnership, and both are now key figures with the Denver Broncos.
A cancer survivor, Westhoff's resilience has been a testament to his fighting spirit, both on and off the field. Those who know him well acknowledge his undying commitment to the game and team. Notably, former Jets head coach Rex Ryan once fondly described him as a mentor and an "older brother," underscoring the deep bonds forged through decades of dedication to football.
Despite their recent challenges, Westhoff's influence on the Broncos remains significant. In tandem with Kotwica, the Broncos’ special teams have seen remarkable strides forward, albeit currently shadowed by a two-game losing streak. The team's 5-5 record reflects a challenging season, but with Westhoff's guidance, they are still in contention, holding the seventh and final playoff spot as they prepare to face Atlanta, a team standing at 6-4.
Westhoff's impact extended beyond the regular season as he had appearances on HBO's "Hard Knocks" in 2010 during the New York Jets' training camp. It was these moments and many others that brought fans closer to the intricacies of coaching, offering a glimpse into the nuances and larger-than-life persona that is Westhoff.
As he steps back to prioritize his health, Westhoff candidly reflects on this phase of his life, stating, "It's not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first." His words resonate with a profound acknowledgment of the importance of well-being over professional commitments, a lesson not just for himself but for many in the high-pressure world of professional sports.
Yet, in typical Westhoff humor and grit, he humorously deflects the notion of age when he remarked, "Gee, thanks. I'm not old. I think he looks older than me." This statement embodies the spirit of a man who, despite his age, still perceives himself as a vibrant force in the sport he loves.
Westhoff's departure might be a temporary respite or a step towards a new phase in his life. Either way, his legacy remains untarnished, a beacon of dedication, resilience, and passion that current and future coaches will aspire to emulate. As the Broncos aim to end their losing streak and secure their playoff position, Westhoff’s absence will certainly be felt, but his influence will continue to echo through the fields of the NFL.