13 June 2023 , 16:32
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NFL legend Rod Woodson has been let go as head coach of the XFL 's Vegas Vigers after a woeful season.
In his first year in charge of the team, Woodson, who was also general manager of the organisation, could only lead the team to a 2-8 record. The XFL released a statement confirming the move, stating that Woodson and the Vipers agreed to mutually part ways after his first year in charge.
XFL President Russ Brandon said: "We want to thank Rod for his hard work and commitment to the Vipers and the League last season. 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 himself said: "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."
One of the best defensive backs in NFL history, Woodson spent 17 years in the league as a player, nine with the Pittsburgh Steelers whilst also playing for the San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens and Oakland Raiders. He won the Super Bowl with the Ravens, and also won a Defensive Player of the Year in 1993.
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This, all coming after an incredible career with the Purdue Boilermakers, where he was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Rod Woodson is out as Vegas Vipers head coachWoodson would also have an eight-year coaching career in the NFL, most of it with his former team the Raiders as a cornerbacks coach - the position he played throughout the majority of his career before transitioning to safety.
The XFL will look to achieve something that they have not been able to do, now in its third iteration - having a second season.
The league has been said to have lost around $60 million from this past season, but owner Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson has spoken confidently on the future of the league.
He said: "My goal was to get through the first season. This is not just an endeavor that’s going to full up a portfolio and one day we flip it and we’re out. This is legacy. This is the long game."