Rod Woodson out as head coach of the XFL’s Vegas Vipers after 2-8 season

A month after the third incarnation of the XFL concluded its season, the league has its first head-coaching change.

The XFL announced Sunday night that the Vegas Vipers and Rod Woodson had mutually agreed to part ways and the Pro Football Hall of Famer will not return for the 2024 season.

“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.”

The Vipers finished the 2023 season with a 2-8 record, finishing last in the XFL’s North division; only the Orlando Guardians (1-9) had a worse record. The season concluded with the Arlington Renegades defeating the D.C. Defenders in the championship game on May 13.

BREAKING THE CHAIN: XFL and USFL aim (again) to not join long line of failed start-up pro football leagues

“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 a statement. “I would like to thank everyone at the League and wish them continued success as they enter season two.”

Woodson played 17 seasons as a defensive back in the NFL, most of which with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He collected 71 career interceptions, including an NFL-record 12 that he returned for touchdowns.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vegas Vipers, Rod Woodson agree to mutually part ways