Broncos assistant Mike Westhoff leaves role amid major health concern

Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff has stepped down from his role to deal with a potential health problem.

According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, Westhoff made the decision to walk away from the position after several discussions with head coach Sean Payton and consultation with doctors.

The 76-year-old is said to have undergone testing on Monday, including an MRI, after experiencing problems related to his vision.

‘It’s not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first,’ Westhoff is quoted as saying. 

‘This team is very much headed in the right direction with a strong foundation and a winning culture. I’m grateful to Sean for giving me the opportunity to contribute to a first-class organization and wish the Broncos the very best.’

Westhoff underwent testing on Monday after experiencing problems related to his vision

Westhoff’s eye symptoms appeared on Denver’s flight home from Kansas City at the weekend, according to 9News in Colorado.

The Broncos suffered an agonizing defeat on Sunday against the Chiefs, who blocked their potential game-winning field goal with the last kick of the regulation time to keep their unbeaten record intact.

Westhoff, who previously spent 12 seasons with the New York Jets, was in his second campaign with the team before leaving his post. 

The former Jets special teams coach was hired by Payton in 2023 five years after leaving his last role with the New Orleans Saints. 

He also enjoyed a lengthy stint with the Miami Dolphins from 1986-2000, while also spending a couple of years with the then-Baltimore Colts from 1982 to 1984. 

Westhoff had retired twice in the past, first after his final season with the Jets in 2012 an then again in 2018, before Payton tempted him back last year.

The Broncos are 5-5 for the season heading into this Sunday’s Week 11 clash with the Atlanta Falcons.