Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff has resigned from his position to deal with a potential health issue.
According Tom Pelissero, NFL expertWesthoff made the decision to step down after several conversations with head coach Sean Payton and consultations with doctors.
The 76-year-old is said to have undergone tests on Monday, including an MRI, after experiencing problems related to his vision.
“It’s not easy to make this decision, but it was a wake-up call I needed to put my health first,” Westhoff is quoted as saying.
‘This team is going in the right direction with a solid foundation and a winning culture. “I am grateful to Sean for giving me the opportunity to contribute to a first-class organization and I wish the Broncos the best.”
Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff (left) resigned amid a health issue.
Westhoff underwent testing Monday after experiencing problems related to his vision.
Westhoff’s eye symptoms appeared on the flight back to Denver from Kansas City over the weekend, according to 9News in Colorado.
The Broncos suffered an agonizing loss Sunday against the Chiefs, who blocked their potential game-winning field goal with the last kick of regulation to keep their undefeated record intact.
Westhoff, who previously spent 12 seasons with the New York Jets, was in his second season with the team before leaving his position.
The former Jets special teams coach was hired by Payton in 2023, five years after leaving his last position with the New Orleans Saints.
He also enjoyed a long stint with the Miami Dolphins from 1986 to 2000, while he also spent 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 and then again in 2018, before Payton lured him back last year.
The Broncos are 5-5 on the season heading into this Sunday’s Week 11 clash against the Atlanta Falcons.