Michael Wilhoite


Michael Wilhoite was an American football linebacker who is currently a defensive assistant for the New Orleans Saints. He played college football at Washburn University where he played six different positions, including linebacker and safety. He was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League in 2011.

Early years

Prior to playing in the NFL, Wilhoite's coaches would use him at other positions due to his athleticism, which also included quarterback in high school. He had played six different positions in total during his college career.

Professional career

Omaha Nighthawks

After going unselected in the 2011 NFL Draft, Wilhoite signed with the Omaha Nighthawks and spent the entire 2011 UFL season with them.

San Francisco 49ers

On December 14, 2011, Wilhoite was signed to the practice squad of the San Francisco 49ers.
He was waived for final roster cuts before the start of the 2012 season, but was signed back to the practice squad on September 1, 2012. After being on the practice squad for twelve weeks in 2012, he was promoted to the active roster. He finished with 11 tackles and made several key plays on special teams during the 49ers run to Super Bowl XLVII, where they fell 34–31 to the Baltimore Ravens.
After the Super Bowl, he remained part of the 49ers active roster the next season.
Set to be a restricted free agent, Wilhoite was offered a tender by the 49ers on March 12, 2014. He signed his tender on April 21.
On November 16, 2014, against the New York Giants, Wilhoite recorded his first career interception, which came off of Eli Manning.
On March 8, 2016, Wilhoite signed a one-year contract extension with the 49ers.

Seattle Seahawks

On March 24, 2017, Wilhoite signed with the Seattle Seahawks.