Rod Woodson Out as Head Coach of XFL’s Vegas Vipers

The team finished with a 2–8 record, which was the worst in the North Division.

Pro Football Hall of Famer Rod Woodson mutually agreed on Sunday to part ways with XFL’s Vegas Vipers, the team he coached this past season.

In the league’s first season back, the Vipers finished with a 2–8 record, which was the worst in the North Division. 

“We want to thank Rod for his hard work and commitment to the Vipers and the League last season,” XFL president Russ Brandon said in a statement. “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.”

Woodson reiterated that in his statement.

“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,” Woodson said in the statement. “I would like to thank everyone at the league and wish them continued success as they enter season two.”

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 played 17 seasons in the NFL as a defensive back for the Steelers (1987–96), 49ers (‘97), Ravens (1998–2001) and Raiders (‘02-‘03) until he retired. 

He earned 11 Pro Bowl bids, along with being named to the first-team All-Pro team six times. He was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year as a Steeler in 1993. Woodson also helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XXXV.

From his retirement in 2003 until he was named head coach of the Vipers, Woodson worked on a few teams’ coaching staffs, including the Raiders. He also had his hand in the broadcasting world working as an NFL analyst for NFL Network and even becoming the Ravens’ color commentator in 2022. It’s unknown right now what Woodson’s next move will be.