NFL Hall of Famer Rod Woodson got his first professional head coaching gig this past season for the Las Vegas Vipers of the XFL. Unfortunately, it only took one year for him to be removed from his role with the team.
The Vipers issued a statement to announce that the team mutually parted ways with Woodson.
“We want to thank Rod for his hard work and commitment to the Vipers and the League last season,” said XFL President Russ Brandon. “During Rod’s time with the team, the players had an incredible opportunity to learn and benefit from his experience. He left an indelible mark on all the coaches, staff, and players. We wish Rod and his family all the best in their future pursuits.
The XFL announced that the League and Vegas Vipers head coach Rod Woodson have mutually agreed to part ways. pic.twitter.com/bqn1hmscLf
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) June 12, 2023
Woodson also spoke about the decision, saying that it was in the team’s and his family’s best interest for him to step away.
“After speaking with my family and members of the football operations team, we decided it was in our mutual interest for me to step away from the team. I would like to thank everyone at the League and wish them continued success as they enter season two.”
This decision isn’t all that surprising considering Woodson and the Vipers didn’t have all that much success in Year 1 of the revamped XFL, finishing the season with just a 3-7 record.
It’s unclear at this point whether Woodson will pursue another coaching opportunity elsewhere, whether that be in the XFL or elsewhere. He does have experience as an assistant coach in the NFL, notably spending multiple seasons as a defensive backs coach for both the Raiders and Steelers organizations.
[XFL Communications on Twitter]
