Broncos Coach Fired After Allegedly Assaulting an Officer

Updated as of 3/06/2025 at 10:030 a.m. ET

The Denver Broncos has decided to “part ways” with linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite a week after he was arrested on serious charges. The team’s head coach, Sean Payton, announced the decision saying he met with Wilhoite and told him the bad news.

“We recognize the serious nature of the allegations against him and believe this is the best course of action at this time,” Payton said Wednesday (March 5), according to 9 News. “I appreciate Michael’s contributions to the Broncos and am confident he will move forward in a positive direction.”

Wilhoite, is facing a felony assault charge connected to an alleged assault on a police officer on Sunday (Feb. 23). It all started when Wilhoite, 38, reportedly left his Ford Bronco unattended in the middle of the Denver International Airport’s drop-off line, according to The Denver Post.

When Wilhoite returned to his vehicle, an uniformed police officer assigned to patrol the area approached him. The officer then told the coach he couldn’t leave his vehicle unattended, according to the affidavit, and that’s when things allegedly escalated.

According to officials, Wilhoite told the officer to “shut the f**k up” twice. And the disagreement between the coach and the official turned physical when Wilhoite allegedly bumped into the officer’s chest purposefully, according to the affidavit. From there, the officer shoved Wilhoite back, before the former NFL player reportedly punched him in the face, officials say.

Wilhoite soon reentered his vehicle and tried to drive off, but the officer managed to tase the coach in the side and hip, according to the New York Post, delaying Wilhoite’s alleged flee attempt. The cop’s attack didn’t last long, as the coach was able to drive away from the scene.

The affidavit also noted the officer had “visible injuries” on his knees in addition to jaw pain. Now, Wilhoite has been charged with single felony assault. “These are routine, everyday interactions that thousands of people get through successfully at the airport without assaulting a police officer,” Magistrate Arnie Beckman said. “That a routine, everyday encounter turned violent is concerning to the court.”

Wilhoite’s bail was set at $5,000, according to the Denver Post.