Steelers (2007) (1 Viewer)

[jetpack]

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.

I dunno. It's a big decision. Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

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.

I would prefer somebody from the outside as well. I am not sold on Whiz and prefer Grimm over him if we had to take one of them. I am certainly 100% against rushing the decision of Cowher because people are worried about losing one of those two guys. And please dont bring me a college coach. No thanks.

 

[Iron Mike Tomczak]

In respect to Grimm and Wisenhunt, if they leave, I wish them the best, cuz they will need it! ATL and AZ are neither palatable coaching jobs, nor guaranteed long term employers. They would need a great deal of luck to finish 8-8. With that being said, 8-8 gets you into the playoffs in the NFC, so I guess they have their chances to appear in a Superbowl in 08 as anyone.

Cowher.....Love the guy, but after this lame duck season I can say goodbye to him. You can hate on me if you so choose, but Ive seen more fire when I strike a match then when he was on the sidelines this year.

Hes been at it a looong time. Hes still only 50 but Id like someone with a fresh prespective and a hunger that Cowher had in the early 90s.

Don't get me wrong Cowher was/is the man. But I dont think he will EVER repeat his success elsewhere. I could be wrong but we will see.

I also trust the Roonys to pick the cream of the crop as they always do. Class act, the Roony family.

Theres the bears defense coordinator, hes a pittsburgh native, some college options, and then you got Grimm Wisey and the rest of the NFL to look at. As long as he doesnt bring in Wanndstat (sp?) that joke of a coach, Ill continue to be faithful to the Roonys.

 

[3C's]

Kirk Ferentz. NFL experience. Very good (from what I know) college coach. Played high school ball in the 'burgh.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

How about Mike Singletary?

 

[Memphis Foundry]

How about Mike Singletary?

:( I really like the idea of Singletary. He's light on coordinator-level experience, but I think his passion and intangibles are outstanding. If you think of a guy coming in and succeeding a long-tenured and legendary coach like Bill Cowher, he's going to need to be able to come in and put his own stamp on things, and the players will need to buy in. Singletary has the intensity, the reputation, and the force of will to make this team his own. I hope he's on our interview list.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

How about Mike Singletary?

I really like the idea of Singletary. He's light on coordinator-level experience, but I think his passion and intangibles are outstanding. If you think of a guy coming in and succeeding a long-tenured and legendary coach like Bill Cowher, he's going to need to be able to come in and put his own stamp on things, and the players will need to buy in. Singletary has the intensity, the reputation, and the force of will to make this team his own. I hope he's on our interview list.

I hadn't even thought of him. Interesting. Very interesting........

 

[Hamstring]

How about Mike Singletary?

I really like the idea of Singletary. He's light on coordinator-level experience, but I think his passion and intangibles are outstanding. If you think of a guy coming in and succeeding a long-tenured and legendary coach like Bill Cowher, he's going to need to be able to come in and put his own stamp on things, and the players will need to buy in. Singletary has the intensity, the reputation, and the force of will to make this team his own. I hope he's on our interview list.

I hadn't even thought of him. Interesting. Very interesting........

For some reason I don't think Singletary can coach. Great player, nothing special coming out of the players he has coached. Ok he was the Ravens linebacker coach, but anyone on this board could do that job.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

How about Mike Singletary?

I really like the idea of Singletary. He's light on coordinator-level experience, but I think his passion and intangibles are outstanding. If you think of a guy coming in and succeeding a long-tenured and legendary coach like Bill Cowher, he's going to need to be able to come in and put his own stamp on things, and the players will need to buy in. Singletary has the intensity, the reputation, and the force of will to make this team his own. I hope he's on our interview list.

I hadn't even thought of him. Interesting. Very interesting........

For some reason I don't think Singletary can coach. Great player, nothing special coming out of the players he has coached. Ok he was the Ravens linebacker coach, but anyone on this board could do that job.

We don't really know whether or not he can coach yet - that's why he's intriguing. if you ask guys that played with him, they'll tell you he has one of the bext instinctive football minds of any player that's ever stepped onto the field. Above that, he has an intensity and a presence that demands respect. I think he's the type of guy players would run through a wall for. What remains to be seen is what he can do as an X and Os guy and as a talent evaluator. Frankly, though, he doesn't NEED to be a brilliant X and Os guy if they can somehow retain Whisenhunt (the defensive schematics, we KNOW Singletary can bring something to the table there, and IMO, the Steelers already have the games best defensive coordinator.)

 

[Memphis Foundry]

There's a great article in the PG today that shows all Steeler contract lengths, salaries, and cap values for all rostered players. This one will come in handy this offseason.

The following is an updated and complete list of Steelers salaries through the end of the 2006 season. It shows each player's salary information from 2006 through the end of his contract. Salary is base salary. Bonuses can include signing, roster or workout. Cap value can reflect other financial information not included, such as likely to be earned incentives.A bonus with an asterix is a signing bonus received in 2006.Name	 Year	 Salary	 Bonuses	  Cap ValueCasey Hampton	 2006	 3,250,000	 100,000	 4,993,750	 2007	 4,260,000	 100,000	 6,003,750	 2008	 3,800,000	 1000,000	 5,543,750	 2009	 3,075,000	 100,000	 4,818,750Ike Taylor	 2006	 585,000	 *-6,400,000	 1,588,000	 2007	 3,325,000	 300,000	 4,975,000	 2008	 4,000,000	 300,000	 5,740,000	 2009	 3,500,000	 250,000	 5,100,000	 2010	 3,500,000	 250,000	 5,100,000Marvel Smith	 2006	 4,400,000	 0	 6,600,000	 2007	 4,200,000	 250,000	 6,645,000	 2008	 3,950,000	 500,000	 6,645,000Alan Faneca	 2006	 3,700,000	 500,000	 5,800,000	 2007	 3,375,000	 1,000,000	 6,122,750Aaron Smith	 2006	 2,500,000	 *-2,000,000	 4,865,000	 2007	 3,500,000	 1,000,000	 6,860,000Willie Parker	 2006	 425,000	 *-3,750,000	 1,365,000	 2007	 2,425,000	 250,000	 3,612,500	 2008	 2,900,000	 250,000	 4,087,500	 2009	 3,350,000	 250,000	 4,537,500Joey Porter	 2006	 3,850,000	 0	 5,237,000	 2007	 4,000,000	 1,000,000	 6,612,000Jeff Hartings	 2006	 2,200,000	 *-1,750,000	 6,455,927	 2007	 3,600,000	 0	 4,475,000James Farrior	 2006	 2,900,000	 0	 4,161,800	 2007	 3,000,000	 0	 4,258,750	 2008	 3,240,000	 0	 4,498,750Brett Keisel	 2006	 660,000	 *-3,290,000	 1,488,000	 2007	 2,650,000	 0	 3,472,500	 2008	 3,250,000	 0	 4,072,500	 2009	 3,250,000	 0	 4,072,500Chukky Okobi	 2006	 585,000	 *-715,000	 1,044,000	 2007	 2,000,000	 0	 2,456,000	 2008	 3,250,000	 0	 3,428,750	 2009	 3,750,000	 0	 3,928,750Larry Foote	 2006	 585,000	 *-1,590,000	 1,635,500	 2007	 2,325,000	 0	 3,372,500	 2008	 2,340,000	 0	 3,387,500	 2009	 2,885,000	 0	 3,932,500Clark Haggans	 2006	 2,200,000	 0	 3,439,300	 2007	 2,465,000	 0	 4,000,668Ben Roethlisberger	 2006	 655,500	 0	 4,549,710	 2007	 1,006,000	 0	 2,276,000	 2008	 1,356,500	 2,950,000	 2,626,500	 2009	 1,707,000	 8,000,000	 2,977,000Cedrick Wilson	 2006	 1,475,000	 0	 1,978,000	 2007	 1,900,000	 0	 2,900,000	 2008	 2,000,000	 0	 3,000,000Deshea Townsend	 2006	 710,000	 *-2,290,000	 1,285,500	 2007	 1,400,000	 0	 1,972,500	 2008	 1,400,0000	 0	 1,972,500	 2009	 1,800,000	 0	 2,372,500Ryan Clark	 2006	 650,000	 *-1,650,000	 1,285,500	 2007	 1,500,000	 0	 1,912,500	 2008	 1,500,000	 0	 1,912,500	 2009	 1,700,000	 0	 2,112,500Troy Polamalu	 22006	 827,000	 725,000	 2,824,200	 2007	 1,088,000	 1,722,000	 1,632,500Travis Kirschke	 2006	 1,550,000	 0	 2,106,000	 2007	 1,600,000	 0	 2,153,334Jeff Reed	 2006	 1,250,000	 0	 1,550,000	 2007	 1,450,000	 0	 1,750,000	 2008	 1,375,000	 0	 1,690,000	 2009	 1,375,000	 0	 1,690,000Jerame Tuman	 2006	 750,000	 *-900,000	 1,053,000	 2007	 1,200,000	 0	 1,500,000	 2008	 1,400,000	 0	 1,700,000Charlie Batch	 2006	 710,000	 *-800,000	 981,500	 2007	 1,355,000	 0	 1,621,650	 2008	 1,355,000	 0	 1,621,650Santonio Holmes	 2006	 275,000	 725,000	 1,000,000	 2007	 360,000	 *-3,560,000	 1,250,000	 2008	 600,000	 0	 1,490,000	 2009	 700,000	 0	 1,590,000	 2010	 755,000	 750,000	 2,395,000Heath Miller	 2006	 373,000	 0	 1,240,000	 2007	 517,500	 0	 1,380,000	 2008	 657,500	 0	 1,520,000	 2009	 800,000	 0	 1,662,500James Harrison	 2006	 425,000	 *-1,375,000	 773,000	 2007	 1,100,000	 0	 1,443,750	 2008	 1,200,000	 0	 1,543,750	 2009	 1,400,000	 0	 1,743,750Chris Gardocki	 2006	 1,088,750	 0	 1,302,500	 2007	 1,088,750	 0	 1,301,250	 2008	 1,300,000	 0	 1,512,500Kendall Simmons	 2006	 800,000	 0	 1,338,304	 2007	 900,000	 0	 1,435,664Chris Hoke	 2006	 800,000	 0	 971,500	 2007	 900,000	 0	 1,066,660Dan Kreider	 2006	 940,000	 0	 1,152,200	 2007	 950,000	 0	 1,160,000Clint Kriewaldt	 2006	 710,000	 *-800,000	 980,626	 2007	 710,000	 0	 986,666	 2008	 730,000	 0	 996,666Verron Haynes	 2006	 595,000	 *-315,000	 754,250	 2007	 840,000	 0	 997,500Barrett Brooks	 2006	 810,000	 *-40,000	 253,950Ricardo colclough 	 2006	 425,000	 0	 1,023,340	 2007	 510,000	 0	 747,225Chad Brown	 2006	 810,000	 0	 300,000Mike Logan	 2006	 710,000	 *-40,000	 468,000Sean Morey	 2006	 721,600	 0	 715,120Tyrone Carter	 2006	 625,0000	 25,000	 697,500Rodney Bailey	 2006	 585,000	 *-40,000	 468,000Bryant McFadden	 2006	 350,000	 0	 623,700	 2007	 435,000	 0	 704,750	 2008	 460,000	 0	 729,750Najeh Davenport	 2006	 585,000	 0	 400,000Chidi Iwuoma	 2006	 585,000	 0	 100,000Anthony Smith	 2006	 275,000	 *-521,500	 448,833	 2007	 360,000	 0	 533,833	 2008	 445,000	 0	 618,834Willie Reid	 2006	 275,000	 *-453,100	 426,033	 2007	 360,000	 0	 511,033	 2008	 445,000	 0	 596,034Lee Mays	 2006	 500,000	 0	 117,647Brian St. Pierre	 2006	 500,000	 0	 205,882Max Starks	 2006	 425,000	 0	 605,630Trai Essex	 2006	 350,000	 0	 507,733	 2007	 435,000	 0	 588,334Willie Colon	 2006	 275,000	 *-283,500	 369,500	 2007	 360,0000	 0	 454,500	 2008	 445,000	 0	 539,500Marvin Philip	 2006	 275,000	 *59,150	 294,716	 2007	 360,0000	 0	 379,716	 2008	 445,0000	 0	 464,718Rian Wallace	 2006	 350,000	 0	 392,446	 2007	 435,000	 0	 472,168Chris Kemoeatu	 2006	 350,000	 0	 374,980	 2007	 435,000	 0	 455,584John Kuhn	 2006	 275,000	 0	 145,588	 2007	 360,000	 0	 360,000Anthony Madison	 2006	 275,000	 0	 210,294	 2007	 360,000	 0	 360,000Arnold Harrison	 2006	 275,000	 0	 279,800Hines Ward	 2006	 2,750,000	 1,000,000	 5,753,000	 2007	 3,585,000	 0	 5,918,000	 2008	 4,700,000	 0	 7,450,000	 2009	 5,800,000	 0	 8,550,000Greg Warren	 2006	 350,000	 0	 355,270Nate Washington	 2006	 350,000	 0	 350,000

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

There's a great article in the PG today that shows all Steeler contract lengths, salaries, and cap values for all rostered players. This one will come in handy this offseason.

Very nice find. thnx.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

FWIW Steelers "insiders" Ed Bouchette and Gerry Dulac were on FSN Sportsbeat tonight with Stan Savran. Both believe that the Steelers will select either Whisenhunt or Grimm, though Bouchette believes it will be Grimm and Dulac Whisenhunt. Bouchette and Dulac both believe that the Steelers are the first choice of both assistant coaches and both would wait on the Steelers interview process before agreeing to coach another team. Savran's panel also acknowledged some acrimony between Bill Cowher and Art Rooney II. They believe that money created tension between the two, according to Dulac a friend of Cowher's said, "It didn't have to come to this."

 

[Ben Stiller]

I also saw Sportsbeat tonight. The guys believe the main reason the Steelers will select Whiz or Grimm is Ben. The Steelers prefer to keep in him in the same system. They'd probably also prefer to keep LeBeau and the 3-4.

 

[Godsbrother]

I also saw Sportsbeat tonight. The guys believe the main reason the Steelers will select Whiz or Grimm is Ben. The Steelers prefer to keep in him in the same system. They'd probably also prefer to keep LeBeau and the 3-4.

I would be shocked if the Rooneys hired a head coach or defensive coordinator that wanted to implement the 4-3. The Steelers just aren't built that way and it would require a major change in personnel. Whoever the Steelers bring will keep the 3-4.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

I also saw Sportsbeat tonight. The guys believe the main reason the Steelers will select Whiz or Grimm is Ben. The Steelers prefer to keep in him in the same system. They'd probably also prefer to keep LeBeau and the 3-4.

I would be shocked if the Rooneys hired a head coach or defensive coordinator that wanted to implement the 4-3. The Steelers just aren't built that way and it would require a major change in personnel. Whoever the Steelers bring will keep the 3-4.

This is why I think Mike Tomlin (particularly) has no chance since he's a Cover-2 guru.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

Why do I feel that Bill sits a year, works for ESPN or THE Network then goes to the biggest egotistical owner ever, in Washington. Gibbs will leave most likely after this next year and what value does Washington have if they need to give up draft picks for his rights? If it's money Bill wants then he'd most likely get it there for sure.

 

[Jous]

Wow, according that list, we've got a lot of players whose contracts are up this year or next year...mostly next year. We better free up some cap room and spend wisely, or we could be rebuilding for a little bit...

 

[3C's]

Why do I feel that Bill sits a year, works for ESPN or THE Network then goes to the biggest egotistical owner ever, in Washington. Gibbs will leave most likely after this next year and what value does Washington have if they need to give up draft picks for his rights? If it's money Bill wants then he'd most likely get it there for sure.

I posted the same feeling in another thread. Man I hope that doesn't happen.

 

[Jous]

I really hope he doesn't go to Washington. Under Snyder's ownership, which I consider to be absolutely terrible, I don't think any coach will be able to achieve a consistant winning team there. I don't want Cowher to suffer through a few mediocre years and then leave, hurting his Hall of Fame credentials.

 

[Godsbrother]

Wow, according that list, we've got a lot of players whose contracts are up this year or next year...mostly next year. We better free up some cap room and spend wisely, or we could be rebuilding for a little bit...

The Steelers have only one starter that is a free agent, Max Starks, and he is restricted at that so they are in very good shape for 2006, especially with the salary cap going up. Signing Troy Polamalu to an extension will be critical and Faneca is pretty important too. Other than that Clark Haggans and Aaron Smith are about the only guys to worry about. Joey Porter is not likely to get an extension unless he is willing to take less money and Hartings could retire at any time.The one thing that jumps out at me is the contract of Ike Taylor. His salary is quite high so he needs to be starting next season or cut.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Interesting commentary from P-G columnist Bob Smizik:

Smizik's analysis: Cowher's exit ... There just might be more to it than family

Saturday, January 06, 2007

By Bob Smizik, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

In what was his final appearance as coach of the Steelers, Bill Cowher spoke for 27 minutes. He said all the right things, thanked all the right people, conducted himself in a sincere and sometimes touching manner and didn't mispronounce any words. He even thanked the media. For an exit, it was a boffo performance.

Except for this: He never really explained to the complete satisfaction of a skeptical audience why he's leaving. How do you walk away from what many consider the best coaching job in the NFL? Not only did Mr. Cowher have a good team returning, unlike many head coaches, he also has the final say in football decisions and works for supportive, non-meddling bosses who could write the book on operating an NFL franchise. He could have stuck around for another 15 years, if he wanted.

So why did he resign with one year remaining on his contract after failing to come to an agreement on an extension in the spring? He reiterated he is not burned out and is, in fact, far from it. He reiterated it was not about money.

Mr. Cowher would have us believe -- and he might be entirely correct -- that it was all about family. But we're left wondering if that was the only reason for his departure.

He coached superbly and with passion for 15 seasons with the Steelers while his two oldest daughters made their way through elementary school, middle school, high school and went off to college, and while his youngest daughter was into her sophomore year of high school. Why now? Why now when the two oldest daughters are at Princeton and, as is the case with so many college students, might never again live full-time with mom and dad?

This is not to suggest there is anything phony about Mr. Cowher's sentiments. It's been pretty clear over the years that he's as good a dad as he is a coach. And we believe him when he said, "If there's a legacy I'd like to leave, it's my three daughters saying, 'My dad was a good dad.' "

There just might be more to it.

What's the old saying? When they say it's not about the money, it is about the money.

The best way to get money in professional athletics is by becoming a free agent. That's what's ahead for Mr. Cowher. After one or two years sitting at home, he'll get bored and return to coaching. When he does, he'll get the kind of money the Steelers were not going to pay him. The Rooneys are not going to pay a coach what Redskins owner Dan Snyder will in Washington and what Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga will in Miami. That doesn't make the Rooneys cheap. It's the way they do business and they do it a lot better than Mr. Snyder and Mr. Huizenga.

So Mr. Cowher can have the best of both worlds. Get some time with the family, even if 40 percent of the family is away at college, and eventually get the big, big pay day -- the one he wouldn't get with the Steelers.

There's nothing wrong with that. Mr. Cowher and the Steelers walk away from this coaching era owing each other nothing. Mr. Cowher gave the Steelers 15 excellent years, one Super Bowl and almost always a competitive team. The Steelers Nation might have been hatched in the Chuck Noll era, but it came to full life and full force in the Cowher era. The Steelers, in turn, gave Mr. Cowher his chance and made him independently wealthy and nationally famous.

Mr. Cowher might dabble in TV next year or just might spend his time watching his youngest daughter play basketball during the week and his oldest daughters on the weekend. He's a rich guy on a one or two-year vacation. He can do what he wants.

But the itch will come back. His competitive nature won't let him sit out too long. One year might be the maximum. When he does, any job that's open, and a lot that are not, will be available to him. Mr. Cowher has his many critics and they can cook up all kinds of reasons why he's not a good coach. But here's something they can't refute. If every job in the NFL was open, Bill Belichick would be the first pick and Mr. Cowher would be second.

Mr. Cowher made a point yesterday of reminding in a non-boastful style that he did it his way. That's for sure. He made few friends along the way. He kept his distance not only from the media but even from his own assistants. Other than strength coach Chet Fuhrman, his relationship with his assistants was strictly professional. It was not surprising that while he cited by name his secretary, two team doctors and trainer John Norwig for thanks, he never mentioned by name any assistant coach. That's the way he liked it. You couldn't get too close to a man you might have to fire some day.

In replacing Mr. Cowher, the Steelers are in as good as position as possible. They're only a few days behind Arizona and Atlanta, the first teams to make a coaching change, and they have a considerably better situation to offer.

Of course, the Steelers have a more difficult task than the Falcons and Cardinals. They have to replace a considerably better coach.

Mr. Cowher will be missed by this franchise, missed greatly.

Meanwhile, here's something to think about -- if you're a fan of Mr. Cowher or not.

Some time in the future, maybe two years, maybe five, in a game no one with the slightest sense of history or drama will want to miss, Mr. Cowher will come back to Pittsburgh and lead another football team on to Heinz Field.

What a day that will be.

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

(Bob Smizik can be reached at bsmizik@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1468. )

 

[Godsbrother]

Interesting article.

As an aside, there is an over-zealous weekend editor at the PG that insists on adding "Mr." on every reference to Cowher.

 

[The Hank]

per WPXI TV (local pittsburgh tv station), the rooney's are intending to travel to chicago this weekend to interview defensive coordinator Ron Rivera.

 

[3C's]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz.

Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

 

[Steelnation]

Why do I feel that Bill sits a year, works for ESPN or THE Network then goes to the biggest egotistical owner ever, in Washington. Gibbs will leave most likely after this next year and what value does Washington have if they need to give up draft picks for his rights? If it's money Bill wants then he'd most likely get it there for sure.

My buddy and I discussed this scenario this weekend. If Bill is ready to cash in, he will be Dany's boy. Being a Steeler fan in the DC area, this would certainly make me

 

[Godsbrother]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

For some reason I think the Steelers have already decided on Whisenhunt and are going through the motions. I could be dead wrong on this but it wouldn't surprise me at all to see them announce their new HC either Friday or sometime this weekend.

 

[3C's]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

For some reason I think the Steelers have already decided on Whisenhunt and are going through the motions. I could be dead wrong on this but it wouldn't surprise me at all to see them announce their new HC either Friday or sometime this weekend.

I think you're right. I'm sure they'll make a good choice. Tomlin is intriguing, but the more I think about it, with Lebeau capably handling the D, it might be good to get a HC from the offensive side of the ball.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

For some reason I think the Steelers have already decided on Whisenhunt and are going through the motions. I could be dead wrong on this but it wouldn't surprise me at all to see them announce their new HC either Friday or sometime this weekend.

I have thought this all along, but for some reason, in the last few days, I am beginning to believe the team is leaning towards Grimm as the choice. I don't even really know why, just a gut feeling.

 

[Godsbrother]

I have thought this all along, but for some reason, in the last few days, I am beginning to believe the team is leaning towards Grimm as the choice. I don't even really know why, just a gut feeling.

It could go either way. I am thinking the Rooneys told Whiz last year to hold off on the Oakland job because the Steelers HC job was his when Cowher resigned. Whiz is also younger and has built the offense around Ben, Parker & Ward. I just don't see you bringing someone else in to screw around with that.Of course when it all comes down to it gut feelings are all Steelers fans can go by at this point.

 

[pfalvey]

I have thought this all along, but for some reason, in the last few days, I am beginning to believe the team is leaning towards Grimm as the choice. I don't even really know why, just a gut feeling.

It could go either way. I am thinking the Rooneys told Whiz last year to hold off on the Oakland job because the Steelers HC job was his when Cowher resigned. Whiz is also younger and has built the offense around Ben, Parker & Ward. I just don't see you bringing someone else in to screw around with that.Of course when it all comes down to it gut feelings are all Steelers fans can go by at this point.

Well, if the Rooney's decide to surprise us and hire from outside the organization, I think there's a real sleeper out there who's only getting minimal play, Iowa HC Kirk Frerentz. He has a very good record producing NFL talent at Iowa, winning program, has NFL coaching experience under Belicheck and has Pittsburgh roots to boot. He's also reportedly been quoted as saying the only 2 jobs he'd leave his alma mater for are Penn St and the Steelers HC positions. The fact that's he's in college and doesn't want his candidacy to go public could be why he hasn't gotten much press.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I have thought this all along, but for some reason, in the last few days, I am beginning to believe the team is leaning towards Grimm as the choice. I don't even really know why, just a gut feeling.

It could go either way. I am thinking the Rooneys told Whiz last year to hold off on the Oakland job because the Steelers HC job was his when Cowher resigned. Whiz is also younger and has built the offense around Ben, Parker & Ward. I just don't see you bringing someone else in to screw around with that.Of course when it all comes down to it gut feelings are all Steelers fans can go by at this point.

Whiz is what, 3 years younger than Grimm? Also, Grimm already had the job title of "Assistant Head Coach" (whatever that means). I personally would rather a head coach come from the defensive side of the ball. The HC gives a team its "personality." I'd like Rivera or Singletary (love those crazy eyes) or some other candidate not currently on the staff but with some Pittsburgh roots. I just dont feel Whiz.

 

[Godsbrother]

Well, if the Rooney's decide to surprise us and hire from outside the organization, I think there's a real sleeper out there who's only getting minimal play, Iowa HC Kirk Frerentz. He has a very good record producing NFL talent at Iowa, winning program, has NFL coaching experience under Belicheck and has Pittsburgh roots to boot. He's also reportedly been quoted as saying the only 2 jobs he'd leave his alma mater for are Penn St and the Steelers HC positions. The fact that's he's in college and doesn't want his candidacy to go public could be why he hasn't gotten much press.

I have been hearing his name a lot but I haven't seen a recent quote that he is interested in the job or that he is even under consideration by the Rooneys. As you said maybe they are keeping it quiet...

 

[Godsbrother]

Whiz is what, 3 years younger than Grimm? Also, Grimm already had the job title of "Assistant Head Coach" (whatever that means). I personally would rather a head coach come from the defensive side of the ball. The HC gives a team its "personality." I'd like Rivera or Singletary (love those crazy eyes) or some other candidate not currently on the staff but with some Pittsburgh roots. I just dont feel Whiz.

The role of Assistant Head Coach means nothing, it is just a title. If they bring in a defensive coach I think it is likely that LeBeau retires...

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I have thought this all along, but for some reason, in the last few days, I am beginning to believe the team is leaning towards Grimm as the choice. I don't even really know why, just a gut feeling.

It could go either way. I am thinking the Rooneys told Whiz last year to hold off on the Oakland job because the Steelers HC job was his when Cowher resigned. Whiz is also younger and has built the offense around Ben, Parker & Ward. I just don't see you bringing someone else in to screw around with that.Of course when it all comes down to it gut feelings are all Steelers fans can go by at this point.

Well, if the Rooney's decide to surprise us and hire from outside the organization, I think there's a real sleeper out there who's only getting minimal play, Iowa HC Kirk Frerentz. He has a very good record producing NFL talent at Iowa, winning program, has NFL coaching experience under Belicheck and has Pittsburgh roots to boot. He's also reportedly been quoted as saying the only 2 jobs he'd leave his alma mater for are Penn St and the Steelers HC positions. The fact that's he's in college and doesn't want his candidacy to go public could be why he hasn't gotten much press.

As a PSU alum and Steelers fan I think I would rather he wait a year or two and take over for JoePa.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Whiz is what, 3 years younger than Grimm? Also, Grimm already had the job title of "Assistant Head Coach" (whatever that means). I personally would rather a head coach come from the defensive side of the ball. The HC gives a team its "personality." I'd like Rivera or Singletary (love those crazy eyes) or some other candidate not currently on the staff but with some Pittsburgh roots. I just dont feel Whiz.

The role of Assistant Head Coach means nothing, it is just a title. If they bring in a defensive coach I think it is likely that LeBeau retires...

I know its a title, but I assume he did some management things as well along with coaching the o-line. I dontt think **** necessarily retires if the Steelers hire Rivera or Singletary, but I say so what if he does. The Rooneys and Steeler fans have to look at this longterm. LeBeau will retire within the next few years regardless and the Steelers shouldnt make a decision based on him staying or going, just as they shouldnt rush a decision out of fear of losing Whiz or Grimm.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Whiz is what, 3 years younger than Grimm? Also, Grimm already had the job title of "Assistant Head Coach" (whatever that means). I personally would rather a head coach come from the defensive side of the ball. The HC gives a team its "personality." I'd like Rivera or Singletary (love those crazy eyes) or some other candidate not currently on the staff but with some Pittsburgh roots. I just dont feel Whiz.

The role of Assistant Head Coach means nothing, it is just a title. If they bring in a defensive coach I think it is likely that LeBeau retires...

That would suck. LeBeau is the best DC they had in the Cowher era, and there have been some good ones.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

Whiz is what, 3 years younger than Grimm? Also, Grimm already had the job title of "Assistant Head Coach" (whatever that means). I personally would rather a head coach come from the defensive side of the ball. The HC gives a team its "personality." I'd like Rivera or Singletary (love those crazy eyes) or some other candidate not currently on the staff but with some Pittsburgh roots. I just dont feel Whiz.

The role of Assistant Head Coach means nothing, it is just a title. If they bring in a defensive coach I think it is likely that LeBeau retires...

Yep, I don't think Assistant Head Coach means that much in reality. Not 100% sure but I would bet that the main point of these designations is to protect against attempts from other teams to hire guys with that title. Since the move has to be a "promotion", the only job another team could legally offer another team's Assistant Head Coach (even if in reality he's only a position coach) would be their Head Coach position.

 

[3C's]

Whiz is what, 3 years younger than Grimm? Also, Grimm already had the job title of "Assistant Head Coach" (whatever that means). I personally would rather a head coach come from the defensive side of the ball. The HC gives a team its "personality." I'd like Rivera or Singletary (love those crazy eyes) or some other candidate not currently on the staff but with some Pittsburgh roots. I just dont feel Whiz.

The role of Assistant Head Coach means nothing, it is just a title. If they bring in a defensive coach I think it is likely that LeBeau retires...

Yep, I don't think Assistant Head Coach means that much in reality. Not 100% sure but I would bet that the main point of these designations is to protect against attempts from other teams to hire guys with that title. Since the move has to be a "promotion", the only job another team could legally offer another team's Assistant Head Coach (even if in reality he's only a position coach) would be their Head Coach position.

It's to keep other teams from stealing the guy for a coordinator job.

 

[Godsbrother]

I dontt think **** necessarily retires if the Steelers hire Rivera or Singletary, but I say so what if he does. The Rooneys and Steeler fans have to look at this longterm. LeBeau will retire within the next few years regardless and the Steelers shouldnt make a decision based on him staying or going, just as they shouldnt rush a decision out of fear of losing Whiz or Grimm.

If the Steelers go and hire Rivera or Singletary they will likely want to install a 4-3 defense, something LeBeau is not going to embrace and he will leave. Going to a 4-3 would be a drastic change considering the personnel they have on defense. In addition, Whiz isn't going to be around as OC so now they have to bring in a new OC, who will likely be bringing in a new playbook and philosophy with terminology that is different with what Roethlisberger grew up on. So now you are making wholesale changes on both offense and defense to a team that went 15-1 in 2004, won the SB in 2005, and finished 6-2 the 2nd half of 2006.I would not like this one bit.The Steelers are a team loaded with talent and are young, especially on offense and the secondary. There is no reason why this team can't be right back in the mix for next season and years beyond that. It does not need an overhaul, which is something I fear would happen if Rivera or Singletary is hired.

 

[nightshift]

So how would Grimm do as an OC? Or would Wisenhunt call the plays from the sidelines?

Again, I think the right move is to move Wisenhunt to HC, Grimm to OC, and keep LeBeau @ DC. Org still intact, ready to rumble in '07!

 

[pfalvey]

Well, if the Rooney's decide to surprise us and hire from outside the organization, I think there's a real sleeper out there who's only getting minimal play, Iowa HC Kirk Frerentz. He has a very good record producing NFL talent at Iowa, winning program, has NFL coaching experience under Belicheck and has Pittsburgh roots to boot. He's also reportedly been quoted as saying the only 2 jobs he'd leave his alma mater for are Penn St and the Steelers HC positions. The fact that's he's in college and doesn't want his candidacy to go public could be why he hasn't gotten much press.

I have been hearing his name a lot but I haven't seen a recent quote that he is interested in the job or that he is even under consideration by the Rooneys. As you said maybe they are keeping it quiet...

I have heard his name some on forums such as this, and maybe as part of an initial list of potential candidates, but not in any credible or tangible reports he is being interviewed or considered. The Rooneys could very well have made a 'silent' trip to Iowa over the weekend (or in the future) and put a gag order on it. I'm just suggesting this is a possible sleeper candidate under the radar. Noone associated Petrino's name with the Falcons job beforehand, either.

 

[The Hank]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

Steelers | Tomlin will interview WednesdaySun, 7 Jan 2007 21:04:31 -0800The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin will interview for the Pittsburgh Steelers head coaching job Wednesday, Jan. 10.

 

[Godsbrother]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

Steelers | Tomlin will interview WednesdaySun, 7 Jan 2007 21:04:31 -0800The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin will interview for the Pittsburgh Steelers head coaching job Wednesday, Jan. 10.

And two days after that, with 2 minorites having been interviewed, the Steelers announce Ken Whisenhunt as their new HC.

 

[3C's]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

Steelers | Tomlin will interview WednesdaySun, 7 Jan 2007 21:04:31 -0800The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin will interview for the Pittsburgh Steelers head coaching job Wednesday, Jan. 10.

I'm liking Tomlin more and more. And it has nothing to do with him playing WR at William and Mary (hometown). Here's what Tony Dungy had to say about him back in September: "Mike would make an excellent head coach," Dungy said. "What makes him a great coach is he's a great teacher. He really knows how to communicate with the players in a way that makes it easy for them to learn."He'll get a shot someday even if it's not with the Steelers.

 

[nightshift]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

Steelers | Tomlin will interview WednesdaySun, 7 Jan 2007 21:04:31 -0800The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin will interview for the Pittsburgh Steelers head coaching job Wednesday, Jan. 10.

And two days after that, with 2 minorites having been interviewed, the Steelers announce Ken Whisenhunt as their new HC.

Couldn't agree with you more, GB. How about Grimm @OC?

 

[Godsbrother]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

Steelers | Tomlin will interview WednesdaySun, 7 Jan 2007 21:04:31 -0800The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin will interview for the Pittsburgh Steelers head coaching job Wednesday, Jan. 10.

And two days after that, with 2 minorites having been interviewed, the Steelers announce Ken Whisenhunt as their new HC.

Couldn't agree with you more, GB. How about Grimm @OC?

With so many HC jobs in the NFL right now (and the possibility of a Coughlin firing), I don't see the Steelers locking up two of the hot HC prospects. First and foremost they probably wouldn't want to pay both what they would be asking. In fact that is my biggest fear: Miami or Arizona offer Whiz a contract that the Steelers are not willing to match.

 

[nightshift]

With the Atl job now closed, that would seem to increase the chance that Whiz is the next Steeler HC. I thought the chance of him going to Atl was at least 50/50. I guess the Dolphins are the next possibility for Whiz. Tomlin is an interesting candidate. Young DC (34). About the same age as Cowher when he came onboard.

Steelers | Tomlin will interview WednesdaySun, 7 Jan 2007 21:04:31 -0800The Star Tribune reports Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin will interview for the Pittsburgh Steelers head coaching job Wednesday, Jan. 10.

And two days after that, with 2 minorites having been interviewed, the Steelers announce Ken Whisenhunt as their new HC.

Couldn't agree with you more, GB. How about Grimm @OC?

With so many HC jobs in the NFL right now (and the possibility of a Coughlin firing), I don't see the Steelers locking up two of the hot HC prospects. First and foremost they probably wouldn't want to pay both what they would be asking. In fact that is my biggest fear: Miami or Arizona offer Whiz a contract that the Steelers are not willing to match.

Bidwell? No way. He's gonna get a West Coast (literally)Miami - did you see who thier intervieing today? Tice. Not gonna happen. Somethin' tells me a stop-gap hire will be happening here.Ones to worry about are Dallas (provided Parcells calls it quits) and NYG. But neither have occurred.Bird in the hand....

 

[The Hank]

After watching the local news (WTAE) tonight this is what the steelers have done or planned for this week:

Sunday 1/7: Interviewed Ron Rivera (Chicago Bears Defensive Coordinator)

Monday 1/8: Interviewed Russ Grimm (Pittsburgh Steelers Asst. Head Coach/Offensive Line Coach)

Tuesday 1/9: Interview Ken Whisenhunt (Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Coordinator)

Wednesday 1/10: Interview Mike Tomlin (Minnesota Vikings Defensive Coordinator)

I didnt see anything else scheduled, which doesnt mean to say that have already interviewed or plan to interview other guys such as Mike Singletary or Kirk Ferentz.

Personally I think the Steelers will select a new head coach sometime next week, most likely Friday (1/19), giving them a whole week reflecting on these interviews of the respective candidates conducted by The Rooneys and Kevin Colbert.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

A poster on SteelCityInsiders is saying the following:

http://mb29.scout.com/fsteelersfrm51.showM...icID=9691.topic

Atlanta wanted Whiz

At least according to Ed Bouchette. He said from his understanding, Whiz wanted to wait on the Steelers and the Falcons didn't want to wait him out. Ed also said money won't be an issue with Whiz or Grimm, they just want the job.

I haven't heard/seen/read the Ed B. quote but if you're in the Wiz camp this has to be a good sign.

 

[Godsbrother]

A poster on SteelCityInsiders is saying the following:

http://mb29.scout.com/fsteelersfrm51.showM...icID=9691.topic

Atlanta wanted Whiz

At least according to Ed Bouchette. He said from his understanding, Whiz wanted to wait on the Steelers and the Falcons didn't want to wait him out. Ed also said money won't be an issue with Whiz or Grimm, they just want the job.

I haven't heard/seen/read the Ed B. quote but if you're in the Wiz camp this has to be a good sign.

Bouchette is usally money when it comes to the Steelers. I am hoping he is right in this case.