The Broncos fired outside linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite a little over a week after he was arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer.
Denver head coach Sean Payton opened up about his decision in a statement on Wednesday night.
“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, according to ESPN. “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.”
Wilhoite, 38, was arrested on Feb. 23 and formally charged with felony assault of an officer, misdemeanor obstructing an officer and criminal mischief, according to court records viewed by The Post.
The ex-Broncos coach, according to the Denver Post, got into an argument with an officer at Denver International Airport after they told Wilhoite not to leave his vehicle unattended in the departures lane.
As the confrontation escalated, Wilhoite allegedly punched the officer in the face and was then tased before driving away.
He was taken to jail that day before a first hearing on Feb. 24.
Wilhoite played six years in the NFL (2011-17) before becoming a special teams assistant with Payton and the Saints in 2019.
Hen then joined the Chargers (2021-23) before reuniting with Payton on the Broncos in 2023.
Wilhoite is next expected to appear in court on March 10.
