Coaching Carousel: Master Thread (1 Viewer)

[Payne]

INDIANAPOLIS -- By the end of this week, Detroit Lions football fans should know the identity of the team's new head coach. He might not actually have the job yet, or even an offer, but the situation should be pretty clear.

According to a source close to the situation, if the Lions don't name a head coach by the end of this week, it most likely means they're waiting for Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line coach Russ Grimm to become available.

"I think that's a pretty safe bet," said the source.

Lions president Matt Millen interviewed Grimm last week but, because the Steelers are still alive in the playoffs, the Lions can't have any further contact with him until Pittsburgh is no longer in the playoffs.

That might be a while. If the Steelers upset the Denver Broncos next Sunday, Grimm wouldn't be available until after the Feb. 5 Super Bowl in Detroit.

The situation is similar to what the Cleveland Browns went through last year when they interviewed New England Patriots defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel early in the playoffs and then simply waited until after the Super Bowl to hire him. It's also similar to what's happening now with the Houston Texans and Broncos offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak, who is expected to become the Texans head coach as soon as Denver is no longer in the playoffs.

Grimm was not available for comment following Pittsburgh's 21-18 victory against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

While Grimm is believed to be one of the leading candidates for the job, he's not the only one. And, the Lions might not wait for Grimm. Rod Marinelli, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator, and Jim Haslett, the former New Orleans Saints head coach, are expected to return to Detroit some time this week for a second interview.

 

[reg]

While Grimm is believed to be one of the leading candidates for the job, he's not the only one. And, the Lions might not wait for Grimm. Rod Marinelli, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator, and Jim Haslett, the former New Orleans Saints head coach, are expected to return to Detroit some time this week for a second interview.

I thought Monte Kiffin was the DC in Tampa.

 

[Jason Wood]

While Grimm is believed to be one of the leading candidates for the job, he's not the only one. And, the Lions might not wait for Grimm. Rod Marinelli, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator, and Jim Haslett, the former New Orleans Saints head coach, are expected to return to Detroit some time this week for a second interview.

I thought Monte Kiffin was the DC in Tampa.

Marinelli = Defensive Line coach

 

[Payne]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

 

[Jason Wood]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

LOL...Steelers "insiders"...nothing is worse than an unnamed source. At how does "insiders" = "several GMs"? Like it or not, it appears Grimm is the heavy favorite for the Lions job.

 

[Payne]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

LOL...Steelers "insiders"...nothing is worse than an unnamed source. At how does "insiders" = "several GMs"? Like it or not, it appears Grimm is the heavy favorite for the Lions job.

Jason,I respect your opinion on the matter. I think you should respect mine. Where there is smoke, there is usually fire. Several reports have come out saying this very thing. Grimm is not ready to be a coach. Show me a link to where a GM says he'll make a good coach.

Also, don't be surprised to see the Lions hire Marinelli or Haslett prior to the Super Bowl. Apparently the NFL is putting pressure on Millen to hire a coach prior to the big game. Marinelli will be in town tonight for a 2nd interview. And now that Haslett seems to be out of the running for the Bills job, he might resurface as the #1 pick again.

Fact is, Millen has no idea what he is doing. They've had 9 coaches come in for interviews. His plan is to have the group of favorites conduct interviews with the local media.

Millen is playing a scared GM right now.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

Looks like Jim Bates is offically out as the DC of the Packers -- just caught the tail end of the press conference on the NFL Network's Coachspeak.

 

[Jason Wood]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

LOL...Steelers "insiders"...nothing is worse than an unnamed source. At how does "insiders" = "several GMs"? Like it or not, it appears Grimm is the heavy favorite for the Lions job.

Jason,I respect your opinion on the matter. I think you should respect mine. Where there is smoke, there is usually fire. Several reports have come out saying this very thing. Grimm is not ready to be a coach. Show me a link to where a GM says he'll make a good coach.

Also, don't be surprised to see the Lions hire Marinelli or Haslett prior to the Super Bowl. Apparently the NFL is putting pressure on Millen to hire a coach prior to the big game. Marinelli will be in town tonight for a 2nd interview. And now that Haslett seems to be out of the running for the Bills job, he might resurface as the #1 pick again.

Fact is, Millen has no idea what he is doing. They've had 9 coaches come in for interviews. His plan is to have the group of favorites conduct interviews with the local media.

Millen is playing a scared GM right now.

1) Payne, I appreciate that you respect my opinion2) I would be happy to respect your OPINION, but the problem I have is that you said, and I quote...Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

THAT is what I have a problem with, and have challenged you on. Had you said, "I don't think Russ Grimm is ready to be a head coach", you wouldn't have heard a challenge from me whatsoever. In fact, NONE OF US can honestly know whether Grimm is or is NOT ready to be an HC.

And to be clear, I've not once said other GMs HAVE said he's ready...merely pointed out that a) he's gotten interviews and b) at least one GM [Jerry Angelo] was by many sources very close to naming him head coach prior to hiring Lovie Smith.

Having an opinion is welcome and encouraged. Throwing out quasi-declaratives involving GMs where there is no source is not.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

Looks like Jim Bates is offically out as the DC of the Packers -- just caught the tail end of the press conference on the NFL Network's Coachspeak.

Rumor (per WTMJ radio in Milwaukee) is that McCarthy's top choice is Mike Singletary. Seems the Packers are looting the highly successful 49'ers program.

 

[Payne]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

LOL...Steelers "insiders"...nothing is worse than an unnamed source. At how does "insiders" = "several GMs"? Like it or not, it appears Grimm is the heavy favorite for the Lions job.

Jason,I respect your opinion on the matter. I think you should respect mine. Where there is smoke, there is usually fire. Several reports have come out saying this very thing. Grimm is not ready to be a coach. Show me a link to where a GM says he'll make a good coach.

Also, don't be surprised to see the Lions hire Marinelli or Haslett prior to the Super Bowl. Apparently the NFL is putting pressure on Millen to hire a coach prior to the big game. Marinelli will be in town tonight for a 2nd interview. And now that Haslett seems to be out of the running for the Bills job, he might resurface as the #1 pick again.

Fact is, Millen has no idea what he is doing. They've had 9 coaches come in for interviews. His plan is to have the group of favorites conduct interviews with the local media.

Millen is playing a scared GM right now.

1) Payne, I appreciate that you respect my opinion2) I would be happy to respect your OPINION, but the problem I have is that you said, and I quote...Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

THAT is what I have a problem with, and have challenged you on. Had you said, "I don't think Russ Grimm is ready to be a head coach", you wouldn't have heard a challenge from me whatsoever. In fact, NONE OF US can honestly know whether Grimm is or is NOT ready to be an HC.

And to be clear, I've not once said other GMs HAVE said he's ready...merely pointed out that a) he's gotten interviews and b) at least one GM [Jerry Angelo] was by many sources very close to naming him head coach prior to hiring Lovie Smith.

Having an opinion is welcome and encouraged. Throwing out quasi-declaratives involving GMs where there is no source is not.

Jason,The Lions beat reporter for a local station has heard from execs that their opinion is Grimm is not ready. I absolutely agree with you that it is far from concrete evidence. However, this reporter has been known to have pretty good sources from within several organizations. In the past his sources have correctly told him that Dungy, M. Lewis and Lovie would all be great head coaches. So he does have some credibility.

When asst coaches such as T. Lewis, Saunders and Rivera are available as is Haslett, I think the Lions would be better off going with somebody like that.

Rumor has it, others agree.

 

[Jason Wood]

Wow, 49ers have hired Norv Turner to replace Mike McCarthy as offensive coordinator.

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5254184

 

[softball]

Wow, 49ers have hired Norv Turner to replace Mike McCarthy as offensive coordinator.

http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5254184

WOW is right. The REALLY REALLY official sign that the WCO is dead in SF.Hope Gore bulks up.

He could be a nice pick......

 

[RandyDB]

Mangini accepts offer to become new Jets coach

 

[saintfool]

saw last night on fox sports that the saints are expected to name their new head coach today. glazer said that the two leading candidates are payton and mike sherman. he seemed to think that payton had the inside track, as he is known for his work with developing and rehabilitating nfl qb's.

 

[XtianTKE]

saw last night on fox sports that the saints are expected to name their new head coach today. glazer said that the two leading candidates are payton and mike sherman. he seemed to think that payton had the inside track, as he is known for his work with developing and rehabilitating nfl qb's.

SAINTS to hire Shttp://www.nola.com/newslogs/tpsports/index.ssf?/mtlogs/nola_tpsports/archives/2006_01_17.html. Payton

 

[Statorama]

saw last night on fox sports that the saints are expected to name their new head coach today. glazer said that the two leading candidates are payton and mike sherman. he seemed to think that payton had the inside track, as he is known for his work with developing and rehabilitating nfl qb's.

SAINTS to hire Shttp://www.nola.com/newslogs/tpsports/index.ssf?/mtlogs/nola_tpsports/archives/2006_01_17.html. Payton

I call for the immediate resignation of Sean Payton before he can do any further damage to the Saints franchise. Tom Benson obviously has no regard for the franchise, as shown by this hire. I call for Payton to do the smart thing and resign.

 

[Jason Wood]

Updated front page to include promotion of Dean Pees to NE Def Coord. and the hiring of Sean Payton in New Orleans.

 

[Captain Blowhard]

Latest report from Detroit: it's between Haslett and Marinelli...Grimm is no longer under consideration and the Lions have informed Singletary he's no longer being considered (per Killer at Mlive.com)

 

[Bri]

Looks like Jim Bates is offically out as the DC of the Packers -- just caught the tail end of the press conference on the NFL Network's Coachspeak.

Rumor (per WTMJ radio in Milwaukee) is that McCarthy's top choice is Mike Singletary. Seems the Packers are looting the highly successful 49'ers program.

well I'm sure they know all too well how great a player he was, regardless of the 49ers, he is "a name". How has he done coaching otherwise?

 

[fatness]

Updated front page to include promotion of Dean Pees to NE Def Coord. and the hiring of Sean Payton in New Orleans.

That one will always look good in headlines.

Patriots LB Coach Pees

 

[lastresort66]

Local news here in St. Louis says that the Rams will decide between Scott Linehan, Cam Cameron, and Ron Rivera by the end of this week.Linehan still the favorite according to local talk radio.

 

[RandyDB]

Just his initials should make him a St.Louis favorite.

 

[Payne]

Latest report from Detroit: it's between Haslett and Marinelli...Grimm is no longer under consideration and the Lions have informed Singletary he's no longer being considered (per Killer at Mlive.com)

Yep. I just posted the other day how rumor has it the NFL is pushing for the host city to have a head coach before the Super Bowl.To me, Marinelli has been an asst coach for a long time for a reason.

Combine that with his age and I'll take my chances with Haslett.

More reports, including quotes from players currently on the Steelers, are that Grimm is not close to being ready.

 

[Kleck.]

On a local fox sports radio station last night they were talking about Mike Sherman interviewing in Buffalo. I'm not sure if he is the right choice for the job, but if Jerry Gray does leave Sherman would probably try and bring Jim Bates with him. Possibly Larry Beightol too. He is looking for a job and he could really help that Buffalo oline.

 

[Payne]

On a local fox sports radio station last night they were talking about Mike Sherman interviewing in Buffalo. I'm not sure if he is the right choice for the job, but if Jerry Gray does leave Sherman would probably try and bring Jim Bates with him. Possibly Larry Beightol too. He is looking for a job and he could really help that Buffalo oline.

I've heard **** Jauron is high on the list in Buffalo.

 

[Kleck.]

On a local fox sports radio station last night they were talking about Mike Sherman interviewing in Buffalo.  I'm not sure if he is the right choice for the job, but if Jerry Gray does leave Sherman would probably try and bring Jim Bates with him.  Possibly Larry Beightol too.  He is looking for a job and he could really help that Buffalo oline.

I've heard **** Jauron is high on the list in Buffalo.

Yikes. Dan Davis (ESPN Radio) just reported that it looks like the job is between him and Sherman.

 

[Jason Wood]

On a local fox sports radio station last night they were talking about Mike Sherman interviewing in Buffalo.  I'm not sure if he is the right choice for the job, but if Jerry Gray does leave Sherman would probably try and bring Jim Bates with him.  Possibly Larry Beightol too.  He is looking for a job and he could really help that Buffalo oline.

I've heard **** Jauron is high on the list in Buffalo.

Yikes. Dan Davis (ESPN Radio) just reported that it looks like the job is between him and Sherman.

You've got to hope Sherman gets that job.

 

[beto]

Anything going on with Mike Martz? I think a lot of teams could at least use him as an OC.

 

[massraider]

Oakland and San Fran papers are saying a bunch of stuff:Saunders is on rams radar, thanks to VermielKen Whisenhunt (OC of Steelers) has spoken to RaidersPat Hill is out, and has a press conference today saying as muchSaunders is the current favorite.I know the Raiders got static here for waiting, but who exaxctly have they missed out on? Mike McCarthy?

 

[Jason Wood]

Oakland and San Fran papers are saying a bunch of stuff:

Saunders is on rams radar, thanks to Vermiel

Ken Whisenhunt (OC of Steelers) has spoken to Raiders

Pat Hill is out, and has a press conference today saying as much

Saunders is the current favorite.

I know the Raiders got static here for waiting, but who exaxctly have they missed out on? Mike McCarthy?

Lots of local reports suggest STL is down to three finalists [all being brought in for another interview], Scott Linehan, Ron Rivera and Cam Cameron.Saunders almost landed in OAK a few years ago, I would say if there's ever a time, it's now after being bypassed by Carl Peterson despite Vermeil openly lobbying for Saunders as his eventual replacement over the years.

 

[massraider]

Oakland and San Fran papers are saying a bunch of stuff:

Saunders is on rams radar, thanks to Vermiel

Ken Whisenhunt (OC of Steelers) has spoken to Raiders

Pat Hill is out, and has a press conference today saying as much

Saunders is the current favorite.

I know the Raiders got static here for waiting, but who exaxctly have they missed out on?  Mike McCarthy?

Lots of local reports suggest STL is down to three finalists [all being brought in for another interview], Scott Linehan, Ron Rivera and Cam Cameron.Saunders almost landed in OAK a few years ago, I would say if there's ever a time, it's now after being bypassed by Carl Peterson despite Vermeil openly lobbying for Saunders as his eventual replacement over the years.

Fantastic. Hope those are correct. Whisenhunt is a name I haven't heard until the last day or so.

 

[Verbal Kint]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

LOL...Steelers "insiders"...nothing is worse than an unnamed source. At how does "insiders" = "several GMs"? Like it or not, it appears Grimm is the heavy favorite for the Lions job.

I hit Joe Jacoby's house with a golf ball about 12 years ago. I think that establishes me as an "insider" for all things Hog-related. Believe me, Grimm is the front runner.

 

[Payne]

The man many think will be the Lions' next head coach is the man president Matt Millen reportedly will interview tonight in Pittsburgh: Steelers assistant Russ Grimm.

An NFL source said Wednesday the talk in coaching circles was that Grimm was the Lions' guy. Various media have reported Grimm is at or near the top of the Lions' list, with one ESPN.com columnist writing that "league and Lions sources" have said the job is Grimm's when the Steelers' season ends.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article.../601120516/1049

I'm telling you, this is going to be a HUGE mistake.Various reports from other GMs claim he will be a horrible head coach.

No I do not have links. It's been talked about on the radio here at great length.

If they hire Grimm without at least interviewing T. Lewis, Millen is a joke.

He'd rather hire his buddy and former teammate than possible a better candidate.

No offense Payne but I HIGHLY doubt any GM, much less several, would allow themselves to be quoted deriding the prospects of ANY head coaching candidate much less one that other teams seem to be looking at. In what context would that come up in conversation? And how many GMs are you hearing say this [do you travel a lot?].

Furthermore, Grimm nearly landed the Chicago Bears job two years ago, and IIRC, that was the only HC job he's ever seriously interviewed for.

Czar's scoop: Steelers LB Joey Porter gave the Colts some bulletin board material this week, saying that the Colts prefer to play finesse football and would never dare to line up and play smash-mouth ball with the Steelers. "They don't want to just sit there, line up and play football," Porter said. "They want to try to catch you off guard. They want want to trick you. They want to catch you substituting, know what I mean?"

Porter said James had a "cheap 100" yards against them. "I don't think they out-hit us,'' Porter said. But Pittsburgh has found an offense lately, averaging 29.5 points in the last six games. They haven't scored 107 points in a three-game span since the Steel Curtain days back in 1973. Since 1994, Pittsburgh has a 1-7 playoff record in the second postseason game in any given year.

Hank Williams, Jr. was a guest of Coach Bill Cowher at practice this week. Also, Jerome Bettis graced the cover of Sports Illustrated this week. When safety Troy Polamalu was on the magazine's cover this season, the Steelers were definitely jinxed, losing three straight. Even if Bettis retires, the Steelers probably won't have Duce Staley back next season — unless he reworks his salary.

Steeler insiders are saying that offensive line coach Russ Grimm isn't ready to be a head coach, although he has interviewed for the vacant Lions' job.

LOL...Steelers "insiders"...nothing is worse than an unnamed source. At how does "insiders" = "several GMs"? Like it or not, it appears Grimm is the heavy favorite for the Lions job.

I hit Joe Jacoby's house with a golf ball about 12 years ago. I think that establishes me as an "insider" for all things Hog-related. Believe me, Grimm is the front runner.

If you're serious, you're wrong.

This is an absolute dead heat between Marinelli and Haslett. This is NOT a done deal.

Marinelli was in last night, and Haslett should be in tonight. Knowing Millen, anything is possible regarding delays, but it should happen soon. Tom believes Haslett has an edge because of his experience.

Why not Al Saunders? He's a genius with running the ball, and that's exactly what the Lions need. Kowalski says it looks like Saunders isn't going to get any job, even the job that **** Vermeil was pumping him up for. To be his replacement. He has everything going for him, but ask yourself why no one else is hiring him?

What happened with Russ Grimm? He thinks Haslett's willingness to stick with Brooks so long is a huge knock. Tom says they love Grimm, but they're not sure if he's ready for what the Lions need right now. They believe Haslett or Marinelli are the two best candidates to do what they need. The fact that they are not waiting for him should tell you what you need to know.

Press conference announcing the new coach should happen sooner rather than later. They could change their mind after the second round of interviews, but Tom doesn't believe that'll happen. He says it's a big decision, and it will happen soon.

 

[reg]

The Vikings have re-opened interviews for the team's general manager position -- fueling the fire of the team's critics who say the process was done backwards.

The Vikings' first attempt to land a general manager was scuttled by the Eagles stepping up and taking their first candidate off the board by naming Tom Heckert the new general mnager in Philadelphia. As the second round of wooing heats up in Minnesota, some Vikings critics claim the Vikings are doing the process backwards.

Since most coaches answer to the team's general manager, it seems to some a bit strange that Vikings coach Brad Childress will be part of the interview process. Childress sat in on the first G.M. interviews -- conduted Tuesday with former Dolphins G.M. Rick Spielman -- and is expected to sit it on other interviews.

At present, the team has made contact with former Atlanta G.M. Ron Hill, but that could be expanded to include Broncos Director of Pro Personnel Rick Smith.

Unlike the coaching search, the push for a general manager could extend out a couple of weeks instead of the lightning fast process that brought Childress to the team.

 

[Jason Wood]

The Vikings have re-opened interviews for the team's general manager position -- fueling the fire of the team's critics who say the process was done backwards.

The Vikings' first attempt to land a general manager was scuttled by the Eagles stepping up and taking their first candidate off the board by naming Tom Heckert the new general mnager in Philadelphia. As the second round of wooing heats up in Minnesota, some Vikings critics claim the Vikings are doing the process backwards.

Since most coaches answer to the team's general manager, it seems to some a bit strange that Vikings coach Brad Childress will be part of the interview process. Childress sat in on the first G.M. interviews -- conduted Tuesday with former Dolphins G.M. Rick Spielman -- and is expected to sit it on other interviews.

At present, the team has made contact with former Atlanta G.M. Ron Hill, but that could be expanded to include Broncos Director of Pro Personnel Rick Smith.

Unlike the coaching search, the push for a general manager could extend out a couple of weeks instead of the lightning fast process that brought Childress to the team.

They should give it to Spielman, he's used to be a puppet controlled by the head coach.

 

[acefootball]

Local news here in St. Louis says that the Rams will decide between Scott Linehan, Cam Cameron, and Ron Rivera by the end of this week.

Linehan still the favorite according to local talk radio.

CBS sportsline is now reporting that the rams are expected to hire Scott Linehan as early as Friday. The report also mentions that either Donnie Henderson or Jim Bates would be potential hires as D.C.http://www.cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/9173717

As a Rams fan, I like this hire as I think he will bring in a quality staff.

 

[Payne]

Newest rumor has Grimm with the job offer and Marinelli being interviewed as the DC.Also Saunders would be pursued HEAVILY if not given a head coaching position.

 

[DoctorDetroit]

Marinelli is the new Lions coach according to Mortensen.

 

[The Hank]

Marinelli is the new Lions coach according to Mortensen.

Confirmed.http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2297266

 

[Bri]

Peter Guinta-Gmen new secondary coach

 

[lastresort66]

Local news here in St. Louis says that the Rams will decide between Scott Linehan, Cam Cameron, and Ron Rivera by the end of this week.

Linehan still the favorite according to local talk radio.

CBS sportsline is now reporting that the rams are expected to hire Scott Linehan as early as Friday. The report also mentions that either Donnie Henderson or Jim Bates would be potential hires as D.C.http://www.cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/9173717

As a Rams fan, I like this hire as I think he will bring in a quality staff.

WE WANT JIM BATES! *clap clap clapclapclap* WE WANT JIM BATES! *clap clap clapclapclap* WE WANT JIM BATES!

 

[acefootball]

Local news here in St. Louis says that the Rams will decide between Scott Linehan, Cam Cameron, and Ron Rivera by the end of this week.

Linehan still the favorite according to local talk radio.

CBS sportsline is now reporting that the rams are expected to hire Scott Linehan as early as Friday. The report also mentions that either Donnie Henderson or Jim Bates would be potential hires as D.C.http://www.cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/9173717

As a Rams fan, I like this hire as I think he will bring in a quality staff.

WE WANT JIM BATES! *clap clap clapclapclap* WE WANT JIM BATES! *clap clap clapclapclap* WE WANT JIM BATES!

Agreed, but I think the Rams better move quickly before he is snatched up !

 

[DoctorDetroit]

This is reason 1,231,707 I'm not a Lions fan. Terrible organization.

From ESPN Insider:

More people mad at Millen

posted: Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Matt Millen didn't win friends the way he hired Rod Marinelli, the assistant head coach of the Bucs. He didn't call any of the other candidates involved in the process after making the hire. Former Saints coach Jim Haslett had been waiting by his phone Wednesday because Millen told him he would fly to Detroit on Wednesday to meet William Clay Ford. Steelers offensive line coach Russ Grimm, one of the early leaders for the job, never heard he was out of the running. Neither did interim coach **** Jauron. Basically, Marinelli met with Ford and earned Ford's blessing to get a deal done. Millen also didn't announce the finalists to the media as he said he would.

Marinelli had to be in Fantasyland on Wednesday. Since coming to the NFL in 1996 after a stint as defensive line coach for USC, Marinelli has been considered one of the best pure coaches in the business. He's been masterful on the defensive line for the Bucs. He's been a prime candidate for defensive coordinator jobs but has been refused the chance to interview for those jobs because he's been under contract. Marinelli let his contract run out and won the lottery by getting a head coaching job.

 

[Payne]

This is reason 1,231,707 I'm not a Lions fan.  Terrible organization. 

From ESPN Insider: 

More people mad at Millen

posted: Wednesday, January 18, 2006 

Matt Millen didn't win friends the way he hired Rod Marinelli, the assistant head coach of the Bucs. He didn't call any of the other candidates involved in the process after making the hire. Former Saints coach Jim Haslett had been waiting by his phone Wednesday because Millen told him he would fly to Detroit on Wednesday to meet William Clay Ford. Steelers offensive line coach Russ Grimm, one of the early leaders for the job, never heard he was out of the running. Neither did interim coach **** Jauron. Basically, Marinelli met with Ford and earned Ford's blessing to get a deal done. Millen also didn't announce the finalists to the media as he said he would.

Marinelli had to be in Fantasyland on Wednesday. Since coming to the NFL in 1996 after a stint as defensive line coach for USC, Marinelli has been considered one of the best pure coaches in the business. He's been masterful on the defensive line for the Bucs. He's been a prime candidate for defensive coordinator jobs but has been refused the chance to interview for those jobs because he's been under contract. Marinelli let his contract run out and won the lottery by getting a head coaching job.

Agreed.They said last night Haslett was waiting for flight numbers, etc when the news broke about Marinelli.

Classless

 

[Payne]

Marinelli may not be the last Bucs assistant to leave. LB coach Joe Barry (Marinellis son-in-law) said he expects Marinelli and the Lions to ask the Bucs for permission to speak to him about their defensive coordinator's job.The Arizona Cardinals sought to interview Barry for their defensive coordinator opening a year ago, and the Packers recently asked the Bucs for permission to speak to Barry about their vacant coordinator job.Barry, who has a year left on his contract, was denied the opportunity to interview for both positions, but he said he hopes the Bucs will allow him to speak with the Lions."It would be nice if they [the Bucs] looked at it differently this time," Barry said. "It'd be great, because Rod and I have always talked about working together, him as head coach and me as his coordinator. I'm keeping my fingers crossed."

 

[ATW22]

New rumor about Al Saunders, he's in Washington interviewing for an OC/Asst. Head Coach position. Money talks

Saunders

 

[Payne]

New rumor about Al Saunders, he's in Washington interviewing for an OC/Asst. Head Coach position. Money talks

Saunders

Maybe Mr. Ford will double it?

 

[tattoofan]

Al Saunders to WAS as OC.Per KFFL. edit to add, said it was "official"

 

[Jason Wood]

Wow, I am truly baffled by how much $$$ the Skins are paying their coaching staff. Will Don Breaux stay onboard [he was the de facto OC last year]But you've got Gibbs making $5 million + IIRCGregg Williams making almost $3 million perAl Saunders making $2 million perGreg Blache [who had been DC in Chicago] makes close to a millionJoe Bugel makes close to a million

 

[Cookiemonster]

And the old fossil, still running the Raiders w/ Ebeneezer Scrooge's spirit still won't pay a HC as much as the 'Skins will pay an OC. I was really hoping to see Saunders in Oakland. Oh well, another 2 year HC coming up...