The Denver Broncos have officially parted ways with linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite following his arrest on February 23 for allegedly punching a police officer at Denver International Airport. Wilhoite, 38, was charged with second-degree assault in connection with the incident, and his future with the team had been in question ever since.
On Wednesday, March 5, Broncos head coach Sean Payton issued a formal statement confirming Wilhoite’s dismissal, emphasizing the serious nature of the allegations.
“After thorough discussions as an organization, I met with Michael Wilhoite and informed him we have decided to part ways,” Payton said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. “We recognize the serious nature of the allegations against him and believe this is the best course of action at this time. I appreciate Michael’s contributions to the Broncos and am confident he will move forward in a positive direction.”
Details of Wilhoite’s Arrest
According to a report from the Denver Police Department, Wilhoite’s arrest stemmed from an altercation with an officer at Denver International Airport after he left his Ford Bronco unattended in the departures area.
A police officer stationed at the curb informed Wilhoite that he could not leave his vehicle unattended. Instead of complying, Wilhoite allegedly responded with profanity, telling the officer to “Shut the f— up,” per the police report.
When the officer issued a second warning about the vehicle, Wilhoite reportedly repeated the phrase and then aggressively “bumped his chest” into the officer. In response, the officer pushed Wilhoite away, at which point Wilhoite allegedly struck the officer, causing him to fall to the ground.
After the confrontation, Wilhoite attempted to leave the scene by getting into his vehicle. The officer then deployed his taser, striking Wilhoite for five seconds before he managed to drive away.
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Broncos’ Response and Wilhoite’s Legal Situation
Following the news of his arrest, the Broncos initially released a brief statement to 9News, stating that they were “aware of a situation involving Michael Wilhoite” and were in the process of gathering more information.
During last week’s NFL scouting combine, Payton was asked about Wilhoite’s legal troubles. He acknowledged that the organization had been in contact with both law enforcement and the NFL regarding the incident and assured reporters that the team would follow “proper protocols and channels” in determining Wilhoite’s future with the franchise.
Wilhoite was released on bond shortly after his arrest and is scheduled to appear in court on March 10, per Denver County Court records.
Wilhoite’s NFL Career and Coaching Background
Before transitioning into coaching, Wilhoite played six seasons as a linebacker in the NFL, spending five of those years with the San Francisco 49ers from 2012 to 2016. After retiring from playing, he quickly moved into coaching, serving as the linebackers coach for the Los Angeles Chargers from 2021 to 2022 before joining the Broncos’ staff in 2023.
His dismissal marks a significant shake-up in the Broncos’ coaching staff, as the team prepares for the upcoming NFL season with a newly restructured defensive unit.
With legal proceedings still ahead, Wilhoite’s future in the NFL—both as a coach and within the league itself—remains uncertain.
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