NFL head coach issues emotional statement as beloved announcer dies leaving fans heartbroken

Longtime sports radio host and NFL and college football analyst Mike Detillier has died at age 65.

Detillier was a beloved announcer who spent his career on WWL Radio in New Orleans discussing the Saints and LSU Tigers.

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He played football in high school at Central Lafourche High School and later attended Louisiana Tech before becoming one of the region’s most respected voices in sports.

The news of his passing was announced by WWL. Detillier reportedly had just recently learned he had terminal cancer and planned to share the news with his audience on Tuesday, his 66th birthday.

“Last week, I was rushed to the hospital for stomach pain. After several CAT scans and tests, doctors broke the unbelievable news: I have metastatic pancreatic cancer. Stage 4. Incurable,” Detillier had revealed to WWL, via Awful Announcing.

“While it’s an incredibly emotional time, I want to thank everyone – the listeners, the whole team at WWL radio and Audacy, New Orleans, and all those who put up with me over the years – from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity to let me live my passion: The game of football. Hosting SportsTalk with Bobby J, Deuce, Hoss, Steve, and the whole crew – working for WWL has been the honor of a lifetime.”

After learning of the news, Saints head coach Kellen Moore opened his Monday press conference with a statement about Detillier, sharing that he was “such a nice and kind person.”

The Saints also released a heartfelt statement.

“The New Orleans Saints organization is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of WWL Radio host Mike Detillier,” the statement read.

“A proud son of Louisiana, Mike was widely respected as a gifted football analyst, a trusted guide through the NFL Draft, and an exceptional family man.

“Beyond his incredible contributions to the game, he was above all a true gentleman and a dedicated family man. Saints gamedays at the Caesars Superdome, training camp practices, and press conferences simply will not be the same without his presence.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his immediate family and to the community of devoted listeners who considered him a friend over the airwaves.

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Florida HC Jon Sumrall also started his press conference by paying respects to Detillier.

“Thoughts and prayers to a good friend of mine, Mike Detillier…he was always good to me.

Tributes from fans poured in for Detillier on social media.

“A true legend of the Saints extended family. He always had time to respond to even the simplest comments. RIP Mike, and Lord, please watch over his family,” one fan wrote.

“Prayers for him and his family. He had a better view of the games now,” another said.

“Sorry to hear that. He was a good man and will be missed by his fans and family,” a third commented.

“This is very upsetting. Detillier was a legend and a kind man. I used to buy his draft previews every year back when thats all you had. RIP,” a fourth added.