Ex 49ers Linebacker Arrested For Punching Police Officer

According to police documents, Wilhoite left his car unattended in the second lane of the departure area. When an officer told Wilhoite his actions were illegal, the former Niner told the officer to “shut the (bleep) up” twice before allegedly chest-bumping the officer. When the officer shoved Wilhoite, the coach allegedly responded by punching the officer in the face.

As Wilhoite returned to his car, the officer fired his Taser. He was arrested and booked into jail, with a judge setting bond at $5,000.

Wilhoite joined the 49ers in 2011 as a practice squad signee, and eventually made the team for his special teams play. He began as a backup to linebackers NaVorro Bowman and Patrick Willis, but became the starter in 2014 when Bowman was suffered a knee injury.

Since retiring he’s coached with the New Orleans Saints and Los Angeles Chargers before being hired by Denver in 2023.

The Broncos issued a statement saying, “We are aware of a situation involving Michael Wilhoite that occurred Sunday and are in the process of gathering more information.”