Mike Pettine, the assistant head coach for the Minnesota Vikings, has announced his retirement from coaching, as reported by Kevin Seifert. At age 59, Pettine has built an extensive career in the NFL over the past two decades, marking significant contributions to multiple teams.
Pettine’s NFL journey began in 2002 with the Baltimore Ravens, where he served as an assistant defensive line coach for seven years. Afterward, he became the defensive coordinator for the New York Jets in 2009, before spending a season with the Buffalo Bills. His prominent role as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns started in 2014, showcasing his leadership in a challenging environment.
In 2018, Pettine joined the Green Bay Packers as their defensive coordinator, taking over for Dom Capers. Though his tenure with the Packers ended when the team decided to part ways, he continued to contribute to the league as a senior defensive assistant with the Chicago Bears before taking on his role with the Vikings in 2022.
Over the course of his coaching career, Pettine’s expertise and strategic insights have made a lasting impact on various defensive units across the NFL. His retirement marks the end of a notable chapter, and his experience will undoubtedly be missed by the teams he has served. As he steps away from the sidelines, Pettine leaves behind a legacy of resilience and commitment to the game.