Steelers (2007) (1 Viewer)

[CrossEyed]

I think Whisenhunt ends up in Atlanta.

 

[beavers]

I think Whisenhunt ends up in Atlanta.

Agreed. Whatever it is, Pittsburgh will have a major coaching change (either OC and/or HC).

 

[CrossEyed]

Steelers Insider: No Deadline For Cowher(KDKA) PITTSBURGH Despite reports that an announcement about Steelers Coach Bill Cowher's future was imminent, Steelers Insider Ed Bouchette tells KDKA that the Rooneys have not set today as the deadline for his decision about next season.The speculation about whether or not Cowher would retire at the end of the season started nearly one year ago – just after the Steelers won Super Bowl XL.While Cowher has told reporters that he expected to take about a week after the team's last game before announcing his decision, ESPN.com has been reporting that the Rooneys want an answer right away.“You’ve got to step back and remove the emotion and that’s why I’ve been very honest with you guys from the beginning,” Cowher said in his post-game press conference on Sunday. “I know where I’m leaning but I just want to make sure that I think clearly about it.”“It’s too important a decision to do it any other way,” he added. “I won’t need a lot of time, but I need some time to make sure it’s a very clearly thought out decision.”Today, ESPN posted a story on its website that team chairman Dan Rooney and team president Art Rooney II wanted to meet with Cowher about his plans for the next season. According to the report, a team source told ESPN that the Rooneys want to get a jump start on finding a new head coach if they need to do so.According to the report, two possible replacements for Cowher include offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt and assistant head coach Russ Grimm – both of whom are potential head coaching candidates for other teams in the NFL.But Bouchette tells KDKA that reports of this deadline from the Rooneys are simply not true.

 

[nightshift]

Rooney's have to pay the man, I know they are historically cheap, but i do not see this team maintaining their excellence without Cowher.

All depends on who replaces Cowher. Whoever it is they will be inheriting a pretty good team.

It's gotta be Grimm or Whisenhunt. They're likely to lose one of these two to a head-coaching job anyway, if they hire someone else, both of these guys are going to fly the coop at the first sniff of an offer to be a HC elsewhere. Personally, my money's on Whisenhunt. The guy is a terrific coordinator, and I think there's a reason he didn't take the Oakland job last year (besides just being smart) - I think he's been told off the record that he is the guy when Cowher steps down.

Nope. Both. Wisehunt as HC, Grimm as OC.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

According to Dale Lolly, a Steelers beat reporter, Cowher has already left the offices and is heading to Raleigh.

Where did you read this? I occasionally read Lolley's blog but there's no updates there since Dec23

 

[jetpack]

According to Dale Lolly, a Steelers beat reporter, Cowher has already left the offices and is heading to Raleigh.

Where did you read this? I occasionally read Lolley's blog but there's no updates there since Dec23

I subscribe to the Steeler's insider site on scout.com. Lolly and Jim Wexell, both excellent Steeler beat writers, run the site's content and are on the boards. This was an update from today on the board. I'm in Austin, not Pittsburgh, but evidently WTAE ran footage of him leaving the offices this morning as well.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

According to Dale Lolly, a Steelers beat reporter, Cowher has already left the offices and is heading to Raleigh.

Where did you read this? I occasionally read Lolley's blog but there's no updates there since Dec23

I subscribe to the Steeler's insider site on scout.com. Lolly and Jim Wexell, both excellent Steeler beat writers, run the site's content and are on the boards. This was an update from today on the board. I'm in Austin, not Pittsburgh, but evidently WTAE ran footage of him leaving the offices this morning as well.

Can I ask how much you pay to do that? I post over there sometimes (in the Heinz field and smack forums) and often want the south side forum access. Last I saw it was like $90 but that included all kind of stuff I didn't want (subscript to SI, other crap.) I want a web-only price. there was something about that a while back but I never jumped on it. Do you know about that?

 

[Ben Stiller]

It's a shame that this has come down to money, but that appears to be the major sticking point. I wish Cowher the best in whatever he does and feel sure that the Rooney's will find the next Noll/Cowher.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Good article in the P-G, at least it appears the Steelers and Cowher will part on good terms.

Steelers await Cowher's decision

Coach goes to 'new home' to ponder future before giving his final answer

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Bill Cowher met with Steelers president Art Rooney II yesterday morning, then drove to his new home in Raleigh, N.C., to spend at least several days before deciding if he will step down as the team's coach.

Rooney said he anticipates a verdict from Cowher in the next few days at the earliest.

"I expect to hear from him later in the week, early next week, something like that," said Rooney, who denied an ESPN.com report that he pressured Cowher to decide yesterday.

"I met with Bill this morning. We had talked last week about talking today, and then he was going to take a few days to go think about things, which is what he's going to do. So, I think he certainly deserves to take his time, get away, think hard about it. That's what he's going to do."

Rooney did not say what he believes that decision will be, but insisted he did not believe it's about money. He also said he would welcome Cowher back if he wanted to coach the final season of his contract in 2007.

"I don't think it's money," Rooney said of Cowher's possible reasons to quit at age 49 after 15 seasons as the team's coach. "Beyond that, I think really it is a question he has to answer. I could speculate, but there's no sense in me speculating. The only thing I would say is I don't think it's money.

"We haven't gotten to that part of the conversation. Now, maybe we will and maybe it will become money but at least where we are today it's really not about money. It's really about him deciding whether he wants to continue.

"Obviously, he has another year on the contract. If he wants to coach one more year he can do that, and if he wants to coach more than that we would have to work something out. He has to think about those kinds of things.

"We'd rather him do an extension, but if he came back and said, 'I'd like to take one more shot with this group of players.' I'm fine with that."

The first time Cowher told his boss that he contemplated quitting after the 2006 season was in a meeting last spring before the draft.

"He said, 'I don't know what I want to do,' " Rooney said. "I knew it wasn't business as usual then. I didn't know where it was going.

"He said he wasn't sure he wanted to do an extension because he didn't know if he would coach after this season."

Rooney was surprised when Cowher said at his weekly news conference Dec. 19 that he thought of retiring after the 2005 season, too.

"He didn't say anything to me. I was unaware of that. I didn't know he thought about retiring before this season."

Rooney said in March that the goal for the organization was to win a second Super Bowl. That makes an 8-8 record unsatisfying. But he does not blame Cowher for it, nor did he see anything that would lead him to believe his head coach might have been distracted from his job.

"I think in spite of the disappointment we had this season I certainly didn't see anything that would cause me to say, 'Well, he's lost something or he's not the same.' He's a good coach and he'll be a good coach if he coaches next year. Those kinds of things are not an issue."

Neither, apparently, was the fact that Cowher's wife and youngest daughter moved to Raleigh before the season. Rooney said the coach never asked him if he could spend more time away from the team in the offseason to be with his family in North Carolina.

"He said if he comes back, he'll be as committed as ever and I believe that," Rooney said. "We talked about whether his family situation was a distraction this year, and we both felt it wasn't.

"You look at the players and talk to the players and kind of look at the way the season went. If that were a distraction, it certainly would have been the kind of thing that would have impacted the second half of the season.

"Everything was set up for a [downward] spiral if there ever was one and we didn't have that. So in my mind and in his mind it was not a distraction. I don't think that's an issue."

With Arizona and Atlanta ready to talk to two top Steelers assistant coaches, Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm, about head coaching jobs, the Steelers can't afford to wait too long to hear from Cowher.

"I think he understands the time frame, he understands this business," Rooney said. "From my understanding in our talks, I don't think he's going to drag this out to a point where we can't deal with it, let's put it that way.

"It will be a sad day for me if he does decide to step down. I've enjoyed working with him and we've had success. Yes, it will be a sad day if he decides to step down, but the other side of it is I certainly would respect his decision and where he is in his career and his life.

"I couldn't ask for any more from him and I told him that. I think he's given us everything he's had every year and I appreciate what he's done."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

 

[3C's]

Yeah, but BGP, why would you want a coach who "plays not to lose," "can't win the big game," and "is satisfied with mediocrity?" Didn't you say before that the reason for the Steelers' repeated failure to reach the top of the sport was due to their devotion to one coach and one program, while switching coaches repeatedly as the Browns do is the way to find a guy capable of winning it all? So, why would you want Cowher coaching the Browns for 15 years?

Well, if Cowher "is satisfied with mediocrity", Cleveland is the place to be.

 

[Bri]

I think Whisenhunt ends up in Atlanta.

Agreed. Whatever it is, Pittsburgh will have a major coaching change (either OC and/or HC).

If Cowher does quit/resign whatever, expect Blank to inquire about Cowher. If he's disinterested in coaching altogether? What it would take to get his rights from the Steelers? etc. Supposedly he's been boasting of finding a longterm coach like Cowher and Fisher alot recently as they search for a new coach. Blank's motivation is a new stadium(and the revenue from it) which he thinks he could get passed if he had a marquee coach.

 

[Franknbeans]

Yeah, but BGP, why would you want a coach who "plays not to lose," "can't win the big game," and "is satisfied with mediocrity?" Didn't you say before that the reason for the Steelers' repeated failure to reach the top of the sport was due to their devotion to one coach and one program, while switching coaches repeatedly as the Browns do is the way to find a guy capable of winning it all? So, why would you want Cowher coaching the Browns for 15 years?

He also claims the Steelers did not win the Superbowl.

 

[jetpack]

Good link in case anyone wants up to the minute updates on Cowher's future.

WPXI

Latest news (9:30am): Cowher declines offer to work for NBC this weekend.

 

[Godsbrother]

Good link in case anyone wants up to the minute updates on Cowher's future.

WPXI

Latest news (9:30am): Cowher declines offer to work for NBC this weekend.

I can't wait for the report on what Mr. Bill had for lunch today.

 

[Iron Mike Tomczak]

He took his family to Hamptons BBQ, where for lunch they had Big Rothlesburgers.

Tonight he plans to take his family out to eat @ Jerry's, and by 7:00 he will consumer a "Porter" House Steak.

Of course he dips everything in HINES ketchup.

 

[Godsbrother]

I just heard that Ken Whisenhunt will interview with the Falcons tomorrow and Cardinals on Friday. Russ Grimm has an interview scheduled with Atlanta as well. Both may also get interviews with Miami too.

If Cowher doesn't make up his mind soon the Steelers may not have a chance to land Whiz or Grimm.

 

[CrossEyed]

Good article in the P-G, at least it appears the Steelers and Cowher will part on good terms.

Steelers await Cowher's decision

Coach goes to 'new home' to ponder future before giving his final answer

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Bill Cowher met with Steelers president Art Rooney II yesterday morning, then drove to his new home in Raleigh, N.C., to spend at least several days before deciding if he will step down as the team's coach.

Rooney said he anticipates a verdict from Cowher in the next few days at the earliest.

"I expect to hear from him later in the week, early next week, something like that," said Rooney, who denied an ESPN.com report that he pressured Cowher to decide yesterday.

"I met with Bill this morning. We had talked last week about talking today, and then he was going to take a few days to go think about things, which is what he's going to do. So, I think he certainly deserves to take his time, get away, think hard about it. That's what he's going to do."

Rooney did not say what he believes that decision will be, but insisted he did not believe it's about money. He also said he would welcome Cowher back if he wanted to coach the final season of his contract in 2007.

"I don't think it's money," Rooney said of Cowher's possible reasons to quit at age 49 after 15 seasons as the team's coach. "Beyond that, I think really it is a question he has to answer. I could speculate, but there's no sense in me speculating. The only thing I would say is I don't think it's money.

"We haven't gotten to that part of the conversation. Now, maybe we will and maybe it will become money but at least where we are today it's really not about money. It's really about him deciding whether he wants to continue.

"Obviously, he has another year on the contract. If he wants to coach one more year he can do that, and if he wants to coach more than that we would have to work something out. He has to think about those kinds of things.

"We'd rather him do an extension, but if he came back and said, 'I'd like to take one more shot with this group of players.' I'm fine with that."

The first time Cowher told his boss that he contemplated quitting after the 2006 season was in a meeting last spring before the draft.

"He said, 'I don't know what I want to do,' " Rooney said. "I knew it wasn't business as usual then. I didn't know where it was going.

"He said he wasn't sure he wanted to do an extension because he didn't know if he would coach after this season."

Rooney was surprised when Cowher said at his weekly news conference Dec. 19 that he thought of retiring after the 2005 season, too.

"He didn't say anything to me. I was unaware of that. I didn't know he thought about retiring before this season."

Rooney said in March that the goal for the organization was to win a second Super Bowl. That makes an 8-8 record unsatisfying. But he does not blame Cowher for it, nor did he see anything that would lead him to believe his head coach might have been distracted from his job.

"I think in spite of the disappointment we had this season I certainly didn't see anything that would cause me to say, 'Well, he's lost something or he's not the same.' He's a good coach and he'll be a good coach if he coaches next year. Those kinds of things are not an issue."

Neither, apparently, was the fact that Cowher's wife and youngest daughter moved to Raleigh before the season. Rooney said the coach never asked him if he could spend more time away from the team in the offseason to be with his family in North Carolina.

"He said if he comes back, he'll be as committed as ever and I believe that," Rooney said. "We talked about whether his family situation was a distraction this year, and we both felt it wasn't.

"You look at the players and talk to the players and kind of look at the way the season went. If that were a distraction, it certainly would have been the kind of thing that would have impacted the second half of the season.

"Everything was set up for a [downward] spiral if there ever was one and we didn't have that. So in my mind and in his mind it was not a distraction. I don't think that's an issue."

With Arizona and Atlanta ready to talk to two top Steelers assistant coaches, Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm, about head coaching jobs, the Steelers can't afford to wait too long to hear from Cowher.

"I think he understands the time frame, he understands this business," Rooney said. "From my understanding in our talks, I don't think he's going to drag this out to a point where we can't deal with it, let's put it that way.

"It will be a sad day for me if he does decide to step down. I've enjoyed working with him and we've had success. Yes, it will be a sad day if he decides to step down, but the other side of it is I certainly would respect his decision and where he is in his career and his life.

"I couldn't ask for any more from him and I told him that. I think he's given us everything he's had every year and I appreciate what he's done."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

Think whatever you want about the Steelers, but the Rooneys are a class act.

 

[pfalvey]

I just heard that Ken Whisenhunt will interview with the Falcons tomorrow and Cardinals on Friday. Russ Grimm has an interview scheduled with Atlanta as well. Both may also get interviews with Miami too.If Cowher doesn't make up his mind soon the Steelers may not have a chance to land Whiz or Grimm.

Your are likely right and I'm surprised and a little disappointed the Rooney's decided to give him more time. If Cowher's not sure he wants to continue, that's enough of a sign that he may no longer be the right man for the job.

 

[nightshift]

Good article in the P-G, at least it appears the Steelers and Cowher will part on good terms.

Steelers await Cowher's decision

Coach goes to 'new home' to ponder future before giving his final answer

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Bill Cowher met with Steelers president Art Rooney II yesterday morning, then drove to his new home in Raleigh, N.C., to spend at least several days before deciding if he will step down as the team's coach.

Rooney said he anticipates a verdict from Cowher in the next few days at the earliest.

"I expect to hear from him later in the week, early next week, something like that," said Rooney, who denied an ESPN.com report that he pressured Cowher to decide yesterday.

"I met with Bill this morning. We had talked last week about talking today, and then he was going to take a few days to go think about things, which is what he's going to do. So, I think he certainly deserves to take his time, get away, think hard about it. That's what he's going to do."

Rooney did not say what he believes that decision will be, but insisted he did not believe it's about money. He also said he would welcome Cowher back if he wanted to coach the final season of his contract in 2007.

"I don't think it's money," Rooney said of Cowher's possible reasons to quit at age 49 after 15 seasons as the team's coach. "Beyond that, I think really it is a question he has to answer. I could speculate, but there's no sense in me speculating. The only thing I would say is I don't think it's money.

"We haven't gotten to that part of the conversation. Now, maybe we will and maybe it will become money but at least where we are today it's really not about money. It's really about him deciding whether he wants to continue.

"Obviously, he has another year on the contract. If he wants to coach one more year he can do that, and if he wants to coach more than that we would have to work something out. He has to think about those kinds of things.

"We'd rather him do an extension, but if he came back and said, 'I'd like to take one more shot with this group of players.' I'm fine with that."

The first time Cowher told his boss that he contemplated quitting after the 2006 season was in a meeting last spring before the draft.

"He said, 'I don't know what I want to do,' " Rooney said. "I knew it wasn't business as usual then. I didn't know where it was going.

"He said he wasn't sure he wanted to do an extension because he didn't know if he would coach after this season."

Rooney was surprised when Cowher said at his weekly news conference Dec. 19 that he thought of retiring after the 2005 season, too.

"He didn't say anything to me. I was unaware of that. I didn't know he thought about retiring before this season."

Rooney said in March that the goal for the organization was to win a second Super Bowl. That makes an 8-8 record unsatisfying. But he does not blame Cowher for it, nor did he see anything that would lead him to believe his head coach might have been distracted from his job.

"I think in spite of the disappointment we had this season I certainly didn't see anything that would cause me to say, 'Well, he's lost something or he's not the same.' He's a good coach and he'll be a good coach if he coaches next year. Those kinds of things are not an issue."

Neither, apparently, was the fact that Cowher's wife and youngest daughter moved to Raleigh before the season. Rooney said the coach never asked him if he could spend more time away from the team in the offseason to be with his family in North Carolina.

"He said if he comes back, he'll be as committed as ever and I believe that," Rooney said. "We talked about whether his family situation was a distraction this year, and we both felt it wasn't.

"You look at the players and talk to the players and kind of look at the way the season went. If that were a distraction, it certainly would have been the kind of thing that would have impacted the second half of the season.

"Everything was set up for a [downward] spiral if there ever was one and we didn't have that. So in my mind and in his mind it was not a distraction. I don't think that's an issue."

With Arizona and Atlanta ready to talk to two top Steelers assistant coaches, Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm, about head coaching jobs, the Steelers can't afford to wait too long to hear from Cowher.

"I think he understands the time frame, he understands this business," Rooney said. "From my understanding in our talks, I don't think he's going to drag this out to a point where we can't deal with it, let's put it that way.

"It will be a sad day for me if he does decide to step down. I've enjoyed working with him and we've had success. Yes, it will be a sad day if he decides to step down, but the other side of it is I certainly would respect his decision and where he is in his career and his life.

"I couldn't ask for any more from him and I told him that. I think he's given us everything he's had every year and I appreciate what he's done."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

Think whatever you want about the Steelers, but the Rooneys are a class act.

Which is probably why Wisenhunt & Grimm will also wait to see what Cowher does.

 

[CrossEyed]

I just heard that Ken Whisenhunt will interview with the Falcons tomorrow and Cardinals on Friday. Russ Grimm has an interview scheduled with Atlanta as well. Both may also get interviews with Miami too.If Cowher doesn't make up his mind soon the Steelers may not have a chance to land Whiz or Grimm.

Your are likely right and I'm surprised and a little disappointed the Rooney's decided to give him more time. If Cowher's not sure he wants to continue, that's enough of a sign that he may no longer be the right man for the job.

The Steeler job will be a highly sought after position. The Rooneys aren't going to rush the process to try to beat another team to a particular coach. If Cowher leaves they will find a capable replacement.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Good article in the P-G, at least it appears the Steelers and Cowher will part on good terms.

Steelers await Cowher's decision

Coach goes to 'new home' to ponder future before giving his final answer

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Bill Cowher met with Steelers president Art Rooney II yesterday morning, then drove to his new home in Raleigh, N.C., to spend at least several days before deciding if he will step down as the team's coach.

Rooney said he anticipates a verdict from Cowher in the next few days at the earliest.

"I expect to hear from him later in the week, early next week, something like that," said Rooney, who denied an ESPN.com report that he pressured Cowher to decide yesterday.

"I met with Bill this morning. We had talked last week about talking today, and then he was going to take a few days to go think about things, which is what he's going to do. So, I think he certainly deserves to take his time, get away, think hard about it. That's what he's going to do."

Rooney did not say what he believes that decision will be, but insisted he did not believe it's about money. He also said he would welcome Cowher back if he wanted to coach the final season of his contract in 2007.

"I don't think it's money," Rooney said of Cowher's possible reasons to quit at age 49 after 15 seasons as the team's coach. "Beyond that, I think really it is a question he has to answer. I could speculate, but there's no sense in me speculating. The only thing I would say is I don't think it's money.

"We haven't gotten to that part of the conversation. Now, maybe we will and maybe it will become money but at least where we are today it's really not about money. It's really about him deciding whether he wants to continue.

"Obviously, he has another year on the contract. If he wants to coach one more year he can do that, and if he wants to coach more than that we would have to work something out. He has to think about those kinds of things.

"We'd rather him do an extension, but if he came back and said, 'I'd like to take one more shot with this group of players.' I'm fine with that."

The first time Cowher told his boss that he contemplated quitting after the 2006 season was in a meeting last spring before the draft.

"He said, 'I don't know what I want to do,' " Rooney said. "I knew it wasn't business as usual then. I didn't know where it was going.

"He said he wasn't sure he wanted to do an extension because he didn't know if he would coach after this season."

Rooney was surprised when Cowher said at his weekly news conference Dec. 19 that he thought of retiring after the 2005 season, too.

"He didn't say anything to me. I was unaware of that. I didn't know he thought about retiring before this season."

Rooney said in March that the goal for the organization was to win a second Super Bowl. That makes an 8-8 record unsatisfying. But he does not blame Cowher for it, nor did he see anything that would lead him to believe his head coach might have been distracted from his job.

"I think in spite of the disappointment we had this season I certainly didn't see anything that would cause me to say, 'Well, he's lost something or he's not the same.' He's a good coach and he'll be a good coach if he coaches next year. Those kinds of things are not an issue."

Neither, apparently, was the fact that Cowher's wife and youngest daughter moved to Raleigh before the season. Rooney said the coach never asked him if he could spend more time away from the team in the offseason to be with his family in North Carolina.

"He said if he comes back, he'll be as committed as ever and I believe that," Rooney said. "We talked about whether his family situation was a distraction this year, and we both felt it wasn't.

"You look at the players and talk to the players and kind of look at the way the season went. If that were a distraction, it certainly would have been the kind of thing that would have impacted the second half of the season.

"Everything was set up for a [downward] spiral if there ever was one and we didn't have that. So in my mind and in his mind it was not a distraction. I don't think that's an issue."

With Arizona and Atlanta ready to talk to two top Steelers assistant coaches, Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm, about head coaching jobs, the Steelers can't afford to wait too long to hear from Cowher.

"I think he understands the time frame, he understands this business," Rooney said. "From my understanding in our talks, I don't think he's going to drag this out to a point where we can't deal with it, let's put it that way.

"It will be a sad day for me if he does decide to step down. I've enjoyed working with him and we've had success. Yes, it will be a sad day if he decides to step down, but the other side of it is I certainly would respect his decision and where he is in his career and his life.

"I couldn't ask for any more from him and I told him that. I think he's given us everything he's had every year and I appreciate what he's done."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

Think whatever you want about the Steelers, but the Rooneys are a class act.

Which is probably why Wisenhunt & Grimm will also wait to see what Cowher does.

I'm sure they want to, but will they be able to? What if Atlanta/Arizona want a decision right away, you know?

 

[Steelnation]

I just heard that Ken Whisenhunt will interview with the Falcons tomorrow and Cardinals on Friday. Russ Grimm has an interview scheduled with Atlanta as well. Both may also get interviews with Miami too.If Cowher doesn't make up his mind soon the Steelers may not have a chance to land Whiz or Grimm.

Do we really want Grimm running the show??? Not sold on him being our next HC.

 

[Godsbrother]

I just heard that Ken Whisenhunt will interview with the Falcons tomorrow and Cardinals on Friday. Russ Grimm has an interview scheduled with Atlanta as well. Both may also get interviews with Miami too.If Cowher doesn't make up his mind soon the Steelers may not have a chance to land Whiz or Grimm.

Do we really want Grimm running the show??? Not sold on him being our next HC.

I dunno. You have to put your faith in the Rooney's ability to select the right guy. If they think Grimm is the right man then you have to hope they are right. The last 2 coaches they picked worked out pretty good.I am still hoping that Cowher decides to stay...

 

[beavers]

I dunno. You have to put your faith in the Rooney's ability to select the right guy. If they think Grimm is the right man then you have to hope they are right. The last 2 coaches they picked worked out pretty good.I am still hoping that Cowher decides to stay...

I'd like Cowher to stay but not if it's only for one more year. If he's going to retire, do it this year so the Steelers can move on and possibly promote from within. I fear that we will lose either Grim or Whiz if he decides to stay just one more year. If he finishes his contract, I'm sure we'll lose him because teams will be willing to pay him what he wants. The Rooneys, I believe, will not pay him the money. Either way, Cowher's stay is short term.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

Interesting stuff this morning from PFT:

COACH CHIN WOULD LISTEN TO FINS

In a move that should surprise no one (but undoubtedly will shock many), Steelers coach Bill Cowher reportedly would listen to the Miami Dolphins if/when the team seeks and receives permission to speak to Cowher, who is under contract with the Steelers through the 2007 season.

The Dolphins would be required to compensate the Steelers if Cowher becomes the coach in Miami. To get Jon Gruden from the Raiders five years ago, the Bucs gave up two first-round picks and two second-rounders.

This disclosure confirms that, contrary to the opinions of guys like John Clayton, who has sworn up and down that Cowher is burned out and not money hungry, Coach Chin is ready to cash in -- and that his desire to get paid market value is at the core of nearly 12 months of phony smoke signals aimed at suggesting that he's ready for a break.

As we recently have explained, why would Cowher need another week to decide whether he's ready to "retire"? Cowher, we believe, was (and is) waiting for jobs to open and for interest to build in his services.

Other jobs that could catch Cowher's eye include the Giants (who could be looking for both a coach and a G.M. next week at this time), the Falcons (who might be attracted by his past success with a running back who was listed in the program as a quarterback), and (drum roll, please) the Patriots.

The Patriots? Have we gone bonkos?

Look, we're not about to make goofy-### predictions (e.g., Bill Belichick might leave New England to coach the Texans), but the same spider sense that told us that we were on to something with the Saban-to-Alabama thing (even as everyone involved denied it repeatedly) tells us that something (we're not sure what) could go down with Belichick and the Pats once their season ends -- and that Belichick could land somewhere else.

Maybe even Miami.

Is it unfair to engage in such speculation? We don't think so, because the aura of mystery surrounding Belichick's contract with the Patriots invites rumor and innuendo.

Does it expire after this season? Next season? After the 2027 season?

And if we've all learned one thing in the past 24 hours, it's that you can trust NOTHING that comes from the mouth of a pro or college football coach.

Hey, we're not passing judgment on coaches. Lying is part of the gig. As we've said before, the game of football rewards successful deception.

The play-action pass, the draw play, the zone blitz. All are premised on fooling the opponent.

And because the lying extends to matters such as the draft and free agency, it becomes difficult for the coaches know when the lying should stop, and when the truth-telling should begin.

So Saban lied, albeit clumsily. And we think Cowher is lying, subtly and implicitly, regarding the reasons for his looming departure from the Steelers.

Cowher, put simply, wants to be paid as much or more than the Big Show, who is making $7.5 million to $8.5 million per year in Seattle. And Cowher wants that money now, not in the last installment of a six-year deal.

Cowher also wants to have it both ways. He wants full value for his services, which we think he deserves. But he doesn't want to come off as greedy.

Stay tuned. This process is going to get far more interesting. And, for the mainstream fan, eye-opening.

And, we predict, disillusioning.

Side note -- if Cowher does wind up coaching the Dolphins this season, would it affect the way you felt about the coach? Would it affect your thoughts about the team/the Rooneys? More importantly, would it affect the way you felt about the Steelers performance this season?

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Side note -- if Cowher does wind up coaching the Dolphins this season, would it affect the way you felt about the coach? Would it affect your thoughts about the team/the Rooneys? More importantly, would it affect the way you felt about the Steelers performance this season?

If it's a given that Cowher is going to leave (I think it is), I hope he wants to coach elsewhere this year so we can get some draft picks. I don't fault the dude for wanting to get paid.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Interesting stuff this morning from PFT:

COACH CHIN WOULD LISTEN TO FINS

In a move that should surprise no one (but undoubtedly will shock many), Steelers coach Bill Cowher reportedly would listen to the Miami Dolphins if/when the team seeks and receives permission to speak to Cowher, who is under contract with the Steelers through the 2007 season.

The Dolphins would be required to compensate the Steelers if Cowher becomes the coach in Miami. To get Jon Gruden from the Raiders five years ago, the Bucs gave up two first-round picks and two second-rounders.

This disclosure confirms that, contrary to the opinions of guys like John Clayton, who has sworn up and down that Cowher is burned out and not money hungry, Coach Chin is ready to cash in -- and that his desire to get paid market value is at the core of nearly 12 months of phony smoke signals aimed at suggesting that he's ready for a break.

As we recently have explained, why would Cowher need another week to decide whether he's ready to "retire"? Cowher, we believe, was (and is) waiting for jobs to open and for interest to build in his services.

Other jobs that could catch Cowher's eye include the Giants (who could be looking for both a coach and a G.M. next week at this time), the Falcons (who might be attracted by his past success with a running back who was listed in the program as a quarterback), and (drum roll, please) the Patriots.

The Patriots? Have we gone bonkos?

Look, we're not about to make goofy-### predictions (e.g., Bill Belichick might leave New England to coach the Texans), but the same spider sense that told us that we were on to something with the Saban-to-Alabama thing (even as everyone involved denied it repeatedly) tells us that something (we're not sure what) could go down with Belichick and the Pats once their season ends -- and that Belichick could land somewhere else.

Maybe even Miami.

Is it unfair to engage in such speculation? We don't think so, because the aura of mystery surrounding Belichick's contract with the Patriots invites rumor and innuendo.

Does it expire after this season? Next season? After the 2027 season?

And if we've all learned one thing in the past 24 hours, it's that you can trust NOTHING that comes from the mouth of a pro or college football coach.

Hey, we're not passing judgment on coaches. Lying is part of the gig. As we've said before, the game of football rewards successful deception.

The play-action pass, the draw play, the zone blitz. All are premised on fooling the opponent.

And because the lying extends to matters such as the draft and free agency, it becomes difficult for the coaches know when the lying should stop, and when the truth-telling should begin.

So Saban lied, albeit clumsily. And we think Cowher is lying, subtly and implicitly, regarding the reasons for his looming departure from the Steelers.

Cowher, put simply, wants to be paid as much or more than the Big Show, who is making $7.5 million to $8.5 million per year in Seattle. And Cowher wants that money now, not in the last installment of a six-year deal.

Cowher also wants to have it both ways. He wants full value for his services, which we think he deserves. But he doesn't want to come off as greedy.

Stay tuned. This process is going to get far more interesting. And, for the mainstream fan, eye-opening.

And, we predict, disillusioning.

Side note -- if Cowher does wind up coaching the Dolphins this season, would it affect the way you felt about the coach? Would it affect your thoughts about the team/the Rooneys? More importantly, would it affect the way you felt about the Steelers performance this season?

I don't blame Cowher for wanting to cash in after delivering the goods and I don't blame the franchise for not wanting to overpay. If he has to go to the Dolphins to get the money he wants, and the Steelers get massive draft pick compensation, I wouldn't be averse to that. If he sits out a year and then signs elsewhere, I would like that a lot less.If the difference is really an offer of $6, per and Cowher wanting $7-8m per, just f'n compromise. Give the guy a 5-year $35m deal and be done with it. The difference in $$ will be made up for as soon as the NFL Network and the cable providers come to an agreement - it's found money.

 

[beavers]

Side note -- if Cowher does wind up coaching the Dolphins this season, would it affect the way you felt about the coach? Would it affect your thoughts about the team/the Rooneys? More importantly, would it affect the way you felt about the Steelers performance this season?

If it's a given that Cowher is going to leave (I think it is), I hope he wants to coach elsewhere this year so we can get some draft picks. I don't fault the dude for wanting to get paid.

I think Cowher is gone no matter what so if we get draft picks, then that's great news. I like the fact that the Rooney's won't pay him the big money. The Rooney's never pay the big dollar for just a few big names which is a big reason why the Steelers are continously successful with the exception of a few down years here and there.

 

[Godsbrother]

Interesting stuff this morning from PFT:

Cowher, put simply, wants to be paid as much or more than the Big Show, who is making $7.5 million to $8.5 million per year in Seattle. And Cowher wants that money now, not in the last installment of a six-year deal. Cowher also wants to have it both ways. He wants full value for his services, which we think he deserves. But he doesn't want to come off as greedy

Side note -- if Cowher does wind up coaching the Dolphins this season, would it affect the way you felt about the coach? Would it affect your thoughts about the team/the Rooneys? More importantly, would it affect the way you felt about the Steelers performance this season?

This is what I have been saying for the past few days -- it is all about money. The Steelers aren't going to pay him a dollar more unless he signs an extension and they've given him an idea of what they are willing to pay with a new deal (estimated at $6 million). Obviously BC wants more and knows the Rooneys well enough that they aren't going to give him the kind of cash he would likely command on the open market.I think he is prepared to sit out a season if he has to but is waiting to announce his decision to give other teams a chance to bid for his services. Of course any team that wants him now is going to have to pay some sort of compensation to the Steelers for his services, which is why the Steelers are giving him the time to announce his decision.I think both sides are playing their hands well and I don't blame either. The only way I would be upset is if Cowher would go to a division rival. As far as the Steelers performance this season I don't put too much of the blame on Cowher. I am sure there are a few decisions during the season that he would like to take back: Starting Ben a little too soon, holding on to Staley too long, etc. but every coach makes a few mistakes during the season. I don't for a second buy into the idea that Cowher lost his fire and emotion and that is why the Steelers didn't make the playoffs. The main reason for the Steelers 8-8 record was turnovers which is largely out of the head coach's control.

 

[jetpack]

Side note -- if Cowher does wind up coaching the Dolphins this season, would it affect the way you felt about the coach? Would it affect your thoughts about the team/the Rooneys? More importantly, would it affect the way you felt about the Steelers performance this season?

If it's a given that Cowher is going to leave (I think it is), I hope he wants to coach elsewhere this year so we can get some draft picks. I don't fault the dude for wanting to get paid.

I think Cowher is gone no matter what so if we get draft picks, then that's great news. I like the fact that the Rooney's won't pay him the big money. The Rooney's never pay the big dollar for just a few big names which is a big reason why the Steelers are continously successful with the exception of a few down years here and there.

Yeah, I have no problem with him moving on. Coaches seem to have a particular shelf life. I'd rather the Steelers start fresh instead of risk investing in a coach who's stayed too long like Noll in the 80s or Shula in the 90s anyways. Change is good. I'd be really surprised if Cowher goes to Miami though. It's definitely an opportunity, but for a guy who seems to be heavily weighing his next move, taking a job that's just come open out of the blue doesn't seem too likely. Then again, who knows? Being well under the cap this year, the Dolphins can certainly afford to pursue big FAs and give up the high draft choices to get Cowher.

 

[Steelnation]

If he wants to go, fine by me, he has all my respect. But make a decision and move on.

That being said I would love the draft picks! If any organization knows how to find value in the draft, it is the Steelers.

Guess I have to agree with you Godsbro, we must trust the Rooney's.

 

[jetpack]

You know, now that I think about it, I bet Cowher to the Phins gets done. It just makes too much sense. Help me take apart this argument:

1. We know he's gunning for money. Otherwise he'd have accepted the Rooney's offer. He may yet accecpt less money to stay, but this would be counter to what everyone is reporting and I don't think would have caused all this delay in a decision.

2. We know it's not necessarily about family or sitting out a year since it's already been reported that he'd listen to the Phins (or at least his agent says so).

3. We know the Phins have strong ownership which can pay what he needs and can offer him the types of personnell responsibilities he wants (see Jimmy Johnson).

4. There's NO guarantee a better situation than MIA will come up next year. If its about being closer to his family, he'd have to hope that Gibbs in DC or Fox in CAR are out which isn't a given, otherwise, it then really doesn't matter how far he has to commute to coach. He - at least right now - isn't a candidate for the Falcon's position either which would be relatively close.

5. The Phins are another stable and storied franchise who's best coach was already a well-established Super Bowl coach.

6. Two of his former assistants are already there, though that's not in itself a reason, and its possible they wouldn't want to work again for Cowher.

Anyways, there's the argument that I could come up with off the top of my head between filling out TPC reports. Have at it.

 

[Franknbeans]

A few thoughts...

Would definitely prefer draft picks if Cowher goes
Wisenhunt probably headed to Atlanta is you read Wexell
He got one for the thumb, his job in Pittsburgh is done
Rooney's track record choosing head coaches is impeccable

 

[jetpack]

There you go: Cowher Decision Monday

Dale announced this last night on another board which is why I said earlier it was a lock he was gone Monday.

 

[ICLight]

Article in the Post-Gazette says Monday is the day as well...

http://www.postgazette.com/pg/07004/751251-66.stm

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

If any organization knows how to find value in the draft, it is the Steelers.

This is certainly debateable.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

You know, now that I think about it, I bet Cowher to the Phins gets done. It just makes too much sense. Help me take apart this argument:1. We know he's gunning for money. Otherwise he'd have accepted the Rooney's offer. He may yet accecpt less money to stay, but this would be counter to what everyone is reporting and I don't think would have caused all this delay in a decision.2. We know it's not necessarily about family or sitting out a year since it's already been reported that he'd listen to the Phins (or at least his agent says so).3. We know the Phins have strong ownership which can pay what he needs and can offer him the types of personnell responsibilities he wants (see Jimmy Johnson).4. There's NO guarantee a better situation than MIA will come up next year. If its about being closer to his family, he'd have to hope that Gibbs in DC or Fox in CAR are out which isn't a given, otherwise, it then really doesn't matter how far he has to commute to coach. He - at least right now - isn't a candidate for the Falcon's position either which would be relatively close.5. The Phins are another stable and storied franchise who's best coach was already a well-established Super Bowl coach.6. Two of his former assistants are already there, though that's not in itself a reason, and its possible they wouldn't want to work again for Cowher.Anyways, there's the argument that I could come up with off the top of my head between filling out TPC reports. Have at it.

The question is : would Miami fork over the draft pick compensation required to get Cowher in the fold? Gruden fetched two first rounders and two second rounders - one would think Cowher would bring at least that much, as he already has a SB ring (Gruden did not when he went from Oakland to Tampa) and he's got a much longer track record of success in the league.I know Huizenga said he'd "do whatever it takes" to win, but if they could get another coach without having to give up compensation picks, would they want Cowher enough to part with this type of draft pick package to get him?

 

[Steelnation]

If any organization knows how to find value in the draft, it is the Steelers.

This is certainly debateable.

Well I guess it could be because of Troy Edwards

 

[Evilgrin 72]

If any organization knows how to find value in the draft, it is the Steelers.

This is certainly debateable.

Well I guess it could be because of Troy Edwards

:IBACPMAJ:(In before AhrnCityPahnder mentions Alonzo Jackson)

 

[jetpack]

You know, now that I think about it, I bet Cowher to the Phins gets done. It just makes too much sense. Help me take apart this argument:1. We know he's gunning for money. Otherwise he'd have accepted the Rooney's offer. He may yet accecpt less money to stay, but this would be counter to what everyone is reporting and I don't think would have caused all this delay in a decision.2. We know it's not necessarily about family or sitting out a year since it's already been reported that he'd listen to the Phins (or at least his agent says so).3. We know the Phins have strong ownership which can pay what he needs and can offer him the types of personnell responsibilities he wants (see Jimmy Johnson).4. There's NO guarantee a better situation than MIA will come up next year. If its about being closer to his family, he'd have to hope that Gibbs in DC or Fox in CAR are out which isn't a given, otherwise, it then really doesn't matter how far he has to commute to coach. He - at least right now - isn't a candidate for the Falcon's position either which would be relatively close.5. The Phins are another stable and storied franchise who's best coach was already a well-established Super Bowl coach.6. Two of his former assistants are already there, though that's not in itself a reason, and its possible they wouldn't want to work again for Cowher.Anyways, there's the argument that I could come up with off the top of my head between filling out TPC reports. Have at it.

The question is : would Miami fork over the draft pick compensation required to get Cowher in the fold? Gruden fetched two first rounders and two second rounders - one would think Cowher would bring at least that much, as he already has a SB ring (Gruden did not when he went from Oakland to Tampa) and he's got a much longer track record of success in the league.I know Huizenga said he'd "do whatever it takes" to win, but if they could get another coach without having to give up compensation picks, would they want Cowher enough to part with this type of draft pick package to get him?

My only thought on this is that if the Phins were ever in a position to not worry about the picks, this might be the year. The Phins are 18 mil under the 109 cap figure in 07, so they could potentially compensate losing those picks by paying out for additional (top shelf) FAs instead of an expensive 1st round contract. I dunno, when a potential HOF coach comes available and the system you have in place very much fits with what he's known to do (RUN, 3-4 defense), and you've just been jilted by some bozo in front of the nation and your team and fan base is demoralized, maybe its a move like this that turns your franchise around after years of stagnation. I'm not sure Cowher bites, but I can't imagine Huizenga not making a run on this. Even if he's going to sell the franchise, Cowher adds value more than a retread like Capers or a never-been. Who knows? Just my 2 cent observation.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

If any organization knows how to find value in the draft, it is the Steelers.

This is certainly debateable.

Well I guess it could be because of Troy Edwards

:IBACPMAJ:(In before AhrnCityPahnder mentions Alonzo Jackson)

Nah, generally, with a few exceptions (edwards, alonzo, scott shields, Jahmain Stephens ) they do pretty good on day one. Their last several drafts on day 2 have been abysmal, and thats where you should be looking for value in the draft.

 

[kupcho1]

The Steelers not overpaying for players and (potentially) overpaying Cowher are two different things. I don't believe the coaches salary hits the cap. These aren't the Bidwells we're talking about. If they feel its prudent to pay Cowher at the top of the coach pay scale, they will do so.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

Well, since I asked the question, I owe an answer. Sorry in advance for the novel, but here are my thoughts.

If Cowher is going to go, I would much rather take picks for him and have veto power over where he goes than to have him sit out a year and let him have an unbridled choice of where he ends up with no compensation to the Steelers. If we got anything like the deal that Oakland got from TB for Gruden (two #1s and two #2s over two seasons plus $8 million in cash) I would be turning handsprings in the hallway.

I think if Cowher is head coach for another team in 2007, the Rooneys' hands are clean. Their actions are consistent with precedent and their history in contractual matters. They set a top-end price and that's it. Yeah, they're hardball negotiatiors but they have a much better idea about the factors going into the decision than any of us. And their track record speaks for itself.

As far as Cowher himself goes, I don't begrudge the guy the right to earn the most money he can when he can. I do think that Mike Florio has a reasonable point in that Cowher seems to be trying to have it both ways, wanting more money now while still under contract without appearing to be greedy. There is also a considerable history with Cowher playing the field when angling for a contract extension (more on that below). But when a player is in this situation, the general reaction of Steeler fans (and the organization, traditionally) is that he should honor his contract as written and the next deal will true things up. I don't see this as being much different than that. Only really in this one way: the magnitude of impact that the head coach can have on the organization as opposed to a single player.

The Steelers are coming off a season which can only be described as subpar, especially given the talent level of this team. I don't believe that Bill Cowher intentionally let up this season because he was unhappy with his deal. But I do think that if getting fair market value for himself immediately is as important to him as it apparently is, it has to have been an immense distraction and a considerable demotivator to him. In a situation like that, some of those things that you do every day as a matter of course because of personal pride and satisfaction in your work -- things that aren't documented or tracked anywhere -- will start to slip. Eventually these slips will get noticed by other people in the organization who suddenly have more slack to pick up. This will normally be interpreted as a lack of commitment, which will tend to roll downhill rapidly. Where that will eventually lead is to a loss of quality control, which is exactly what we saw from the team this year. The only way to describe their play was sloppy. And that is not Steeler football. Check out the Turnover Differential stats from the last six seasons (the only ones I could find data for):

2006: -8 (8-8)

2005: +7 (11-5)

2004: +11 (15-1)

2003 -3 (6-10)

2002: 0 (10-5)

2001:+7 (13-3)

I placed our regular season record to the right of the turnover differential for comparison. I'm no statistician but this season was by far the worst year for the franchise in a long time in terms of turnover differential. Can I prove what caused this turnover surge? Not at all. A lot of it is definitely attributable to the struggles that Roeth had early in the season, trying to play while he should have been sitting. And we'll never know the real answer. But the timing of it makes me think that Cowher lacking motivation may have contributed to the situation more than we might be able to observe from the outside. And the last few weeks certainly hasn't done anything to build his motivation.

In fact, there has been some considerable constraint each of the last three times Cowher's contract was renewed by the Steelers -- in 1998, he was talking about becoming Coach/GM of the "new" Cleveland Browns before he received a 3 year extension. In 2000, the team cut loose Tom Donahoe and kept Cowher after a power struggle (right decision there), but by 2001 there was a lot of buzz about him going to KC before **** Vermeil was hired. Cowher received another 3 year deal then. And again in 2004, there were rumors about Cowher looking to succeed Vermeil in KC and/or the lame duck Butch Davis in Cleveland before his contract was extended for the (likely) final time. Maybe he just doesn't have the stomach to go through all that again. Or maybe the Rooneys have seen this thing play out one time too many already.

A lot of latent resentment is built up here on both sides, in my opinion. That's why I think it's probably best for the franchise if the Steelers go in a different direction. Ed Bouchette had a great article in the PG a few weeks ago where he essentially said that his sense is that "it's time" for Cowher to move on. He had the same feeling when Noll retired after the 1991 season. I agree with him. I think both Cowher and the Steelers will do better by going their separate ways.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Great stuff here, MF, GREAT stuff.

I agree with much of what you say too. I just can't bring myself to think the team is better off with another coach, though, even someone from within.

 

[Godsbrother]

Great stuff here, MF, GREAT stuff.I agree with much of what you say too. I just can't bring myself to think the team is better off with another coach, though, even someone from within.

Agreed, good stuff. But I don't buy the argument about Cowher's "lack of commitment" had anything at all to do with the Steelers turnover ratio. Not one bit.

 

[nightshift]

Great stuff here, MF, GREAT stuff.I agree with much of what you say too. I just can't bring myself to think the team is better off with another coach, though, even someone from within.

No matter what the writers, talking heads, etc. say, like Rocky, "It ain't over, til it's over!"If Cowher was committed to family life, why was he negotiating with the Rooneys for an extension? What's up with the $7mil vs. $6mil /yr stuff? If the Steelers pay him $7 mil or possibly $6.5 mil, guess what? Cowher is there for another 3-5 years.Hang tough, Steelers faithful. Monday is still over 3 NEGOTIATING days away... don't beleive for instant that no communications are occurring as we type.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

Great stuff here, MF, GREAT stuff.

I agree with much of what you say too. I just can't bring myself to think the team is better off with another coach, though, even someone from within.

Agreed, good stuff. But I don't buy the argument about Cowher's "lack of commitment" had anything at all to do with the Steelers turnover ratio. Not one bit.

In that case, you probably won't be too keen on my follow-up argument that our next coach will probably come from outside the organization primarily because of the existing staff's inability to stop the bleeding last season. All this is completely theoretical, of course -- it's just fun to speculate about while we wait on the decision.

 

[jetpack]

Great stuff here, MF, GREAT stuff.

I agree with much of what you say too. I just can't bring myself to think the team is better off with another coach, though, even someone from within.

Agreed, good stuff. But I don't buy the argument about Cowher's "lack of commitment" had anything at all to do with the Steelers turnover ratio. Not one bit.

In that case, you probably won't be too keen on my follow-up argument that our next coach will probably come from outside the organization primarily because of the existing staff's inability to stop the bleeding last season. All this is completely theoretical, of course -- it's just fun to speculate about while we wait on the decision.

Couldn't agree more about outside the org, though not because of last season. Maybe they really like Whisenhunt, but c'mon, how is he any different than the slew of offensive coordinators the Steelers have had over the years? I'd argue that they'll bring in a few outsiders with a totally different vision because (1) Rooney Rule, (2) Prescedent. This is a looong term committment they're going for. I just don't see them making that kind of decision without a very thorough review of the candidates.

 

[3C's]

I'd prefer someone from outside the organization. A fresh start would be nice. And Cowher disciples don't have a good track record as HC's. Maybe Whiz will be different. But I'm not at all sold on Grimm.

 

[Ghost Rider]

I like Cowher, but if he is leaving, why wait till Monday to announce it? All that is going to do is make the NFL talking heads speculate all weekend about it, while taking attention away from where it should be...on the playoff games. Between this and Saban, they sure have done a good job of stealing the headlines from the playoff teams this week.