An assistant coach for the Denver Broncos, Michael Wilhoite, is currently facing a felony assault charge after an incident at Denver International Airport. Wilhoite was arrested on suspicion of second-degree assault on a police officer and was booked into the Denver jail on Sunday. A judge set a $5,000 bond for him on Monday.
The Broncos released a statement acknowledging the situation and mentioned that they are in the process of gathering more information regarding the incident.
According to a police affidavit, the altercation occurred when Wilhoite left his vehicle unattended in the airport's drop-off lane. When a uniformed police officer approached him and informed him that he couldn't do that, Wilhoite became confrontational. He allegedly bumped his chest into the officer, who then pushed him back. Wilhoite proceeded to punch the officer in the face, knocking him down, before returning to his truck.
The officer resorted to using a Taser on Wilhoite as he attempted to drive away in his vehicle, leading to his subsequent arrest.
During Monday's hearing, Magistrate Arnie Beckman expressed concern over the escalation of what he described as a routine encounter at the airport. Beckman emphasized that such interactions should not turn violent.
Wilhoite, 38, joined the Broncos' coaching staff in 2023 after previous coaching stints with the New Orleans Saints and the Los Angeles Chargers. Prior to his coaching career, he played as a linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers and the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL.
The Broncos had a successful season last year, setting a franchise record with 63 sacks in the regular season and ending an eight-year playoff drought.
The Associated Press reached out to Wilhoite's attorney for comment but did not receive a response at the time of reporting.
Sources: AP NFL
