Steelers (2007) (1 Viewer)

[massraider]

I'd bet that this is a courtesy interview for Gailey's work as OC in his prior stint with the Steelers.

According to a poster on another board, Cowher suggested they interview Gailey. And that they are "enamored" with Tomlin. Not sure where he got that information, but he credits Gerry Dulac...but he did misspell Gerry as Jerry. Probably not reliable.

I am sure this is right. I still recall the NFL Films video of Cowher asking Chan Gailey if he thought the suprise onside kick was a good call in SB XXX. Gailey also was the OC in 1997 when the Steelers had one of their best offenses under Cowher, eventually losing to Denver in the AFC Championship.

I don't see the point of making a courtesy interview, I really don't. It isn't like Gailey doesn't have a job or is down on his luck. Bringing Gailey in has every sportscaster/writer in town scratching their head. I can only assume the Steelers are still undecided and so they are bringing another coach they like and respect. They could be talking to Gailey about an OC position but you would think the next head coach would want to choose his own guy. I dunno, I have been saying all along it will be Whiz but the longer this drags on I think it becomes less likely.

FWIW from Pro Football Talk:

POSTED 6:04 a.m. EST, January 12, 2007

STEELERS LEAKED GAILEY INTERVIEW?

In response to our item questioning the sanity of Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey for allowing his name to be publicly tied to interviews with the Fins and the Steelers as he tries to convert those verbal commitments from Yellow Jacket recruits to written ones, an industry source tells us that Gailey was "very disappointed" by the fact that the news got out -- and that the information came straight from the Steelers front office.

So why would the normally tight-lipped Rooneys allow this information to become public? One possibility is that Gailey isn't a genuine candidate for the job, but that the organization is bringing in more people to counter the unusual leverage that has arisen from the fact that in-house favorites Russ Grimm and Ken Whisenhunt have the same agent.

And there are signs that their agent, Eric Metz, could be advising them jointly on strategies for ensuring that one of them gets the job. For example, a report earlier this week from Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette indicated that Grimm and Whisenhunt separately were saying privately that if one of them gets the head-coaching job, the other will stay on the staff.

It also suggests that the interviews of Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera and Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin were not as solid as they needed to be to make either of them better candidates than Whisenhunt and Grimm.

Meanwhile, another industry source tells us that Gailey isn't as big of a long shot for the Dolphins' job as most might believe. The source believes that Gailey will be among the five finalists for the job, and could get it.

Considering that PFT also reported last week that Jamarcus Russell signed with an agent, one Mr. Metz, I think we can safely assume that this Mets guy has PFT on speed-dial.I wonder how much of their info is stuff Metz wants out there.

 

[Godsbrother]

FWIW from Pro Football Talk:

POSTED 6:04 a.m. EST, January 12, 2007STEELERS LEAKED GAILEY INTERVIEW?In response to our item questioning the sanity of Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey for allowing his name to be publicly tied to interviews with the Fins and the Steelers as he tries to convert those verbal commitments from Yellow Jacket recruits to written ones, an industry source tells us that Gailey was "very disappointed" by the fact that the news got out -- and that the information came straight from the Steelers front office.So why would the normally tight-lipped Rooneys allow this information to become public? One possibility is that Gailey isn't a genuine candidate for the job, but that the organization is bringing in more people to counter the unusual leverage that has arisen from the fact that in-house favorites Russ Grimm and Ken Whisenhunt have the same agent.And there are signs that their agent, Eric Metz, could be advising them jointly on strategies for ensuring that one of them gets the job. For example, a report earlier this week from Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette indicated that Grimm and Whisenhunt separately were saying privately that if one of them gets the head-coaching job, the other will stay on the staff.It also suggests that the interviews of Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera and Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin were not as solid as they needed to be to make either of them better candidates than Whisenhunt and Grimm.Meanwhile, another industry source tells us that Gailey isn't as big of a long shot for the Dolphins' job as most might believe. The source believes that Gailey will be among the five finalists for the job, and could get it.

Interesting. This could be a chess game between Whisenhunt and the Steelers afterall. Perhaps the Steelers did make an offer and Whis told them he wanted to talk to Arizona again. So the Steelers countered that with scheduling an interview with Gailey. Fun stuff!

 

[nightshift]

FWIW from Pro Football Talk:

POSTED 6:04 a.m. EST, January 12, 2007STEELERS LEAKED GAILEY INTERVIEW?In response to our item questioning the sanity of Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey for allowing his name to be publicly tied to interviews with the Fins and the Steelers as he tries to convert those verbal commitments from Yellow Jacket recruits to written ones, an industry source tells us that Gailey was "very disappointed" by the fact that the news got out -- and that the information came straight from the Steelers front office.So why would the normally tight-lipped Rooneys allow this information to become public? One possibility is that Gailey isn't a genuine candidate for the job, but that the organization is bringing in more people to counter the unusual leverage that has arisen from the fact that in-house favorites Russ Grimm and Ken Whisenhunt have the same agent.And there are signs that their agent, Eric Metz, could be advising them jointly on strategies for ensuring that one of them gets the job. For example, a report earlier this week from Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette indicated that Grimm and Whisenhunt separately were saying privately that if one of them gets the head-coaching job, the other will stay on the staff.It also suggests that the interviews of Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera and Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin were not as solid as they needed to be to make either of them better candidates than Whisenhunt and Grimm.Meanwhile, another industry source tells us that Gailey isn't as big of a long shot for the Dolphins' job as most might believe. The source believes that Gailey will be among the five finalists for the job, and could get it.

Interesting. This could be a chess game between Whisenhunt and the Steelers afterall. Perhaps the Steelers did make an offer and Whis told them he wanted to talk to Arizona again. So the Steelers countered that with scheduling an interview with Gailey. Fun stuff!

From above:

For example, a report earlier this week from Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette indicated that Grimm and Whisenhunt separately were saying privately that if one of them gets the head-coaching job, the other will stay on the staff.

Neogtiating position. Wiz & Grimm know "the closed door" story with Cowher & are tryin' to get the biggest paychecks possible. Nothing wrong with that. As long as we get them signed next week.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Former Packers boss may be on listWhisenhunt might get offer from CardinalsSaturday, January 13, 2007By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-GazetteChan Gailey might not be the final candidate for the Steelers' head-coaching job when he talks to team officials today at their UPMC offices on the South Side.The Steelers have made recent inquiries about former Green Bay Packers coach Mike Sherman, and they were trying to reach him the past two days. Sherman, the assistant head coach/offense for the Houston Texans, was en route from a second interview he had in Arizona Thursday for the Cardinals' head-coaching job.Yesterday, the Cardinals gave Steelers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt his second interview in Arizona. He will stay in Arizona another day at the Cardinals' request to consider a possible job offer.If the Steelers talk to Sherman, 52, he would be the sixth known candidate for the job that came open when Bill Cowher quit Jan. 5 and the second to be contacted after a first round of four interviews occurred last week.Sherman compiled a 59-43 record as coach of the Packers from 2000-05. His teams had winning records in his first five seasons, winning three division championships and making the playoffs four times. Sherman's Packers came within an overtime loss at Philadelphia after the 2003 season of reaching the NFC championship game.The entrance of Gailey, 55, and possibly Sherman into the mix alters the picture of what the Steelers intend to do about their most important job opening. It was long regarded as a two-horse race between Steelers assistant coaches Russ Grimm and Whisenhunt. Both men were interviewed this past week on separate days for three hours apiece, as were Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera and Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin.The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported that Tomlin will get a second interview in Miami.The Steelers apparently have not dismissed any of their candidates from consideration. Thursday, Steelers president Art Rooney had a long conversation with Eagles head coach Andy Reid about Rivera, who coached under Reid with the Eagles from 1999-2003.Grimm also was interviewed in Arizona, and Whisenhunt also interviewed with Atlanta and Miami and remains a candidate for the Dolphins' job as well as the Cardinals'.Whisenhunt has said the Steelers' job would be his No. 1 choice -- a possible reason he was not offered the job in his hometown of Atlanta -- but Dan and Art Rooney have not given him or Grimm guarantees that either is their top choice. If the Cardinals were to make Whisenhunt an offer after his second interview, it would leave him with a difficult choice -- take the bird in hand or turn it down and gamble he will get the Steelers' job.It could be that the Steelers are merely hedging their bets by talking to Gailey and Sherman or investigating to see if, perhaps, there isn't a better candidate outside their organization. Gailey remains a candidate in Miami and Sherman in Arizona.Gailey is the head coach at Georgia Tech and was a wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator with the Steelers from 1994-97 before the Dallas Cowboys hired him as their head coach in 1998. He coached the Cowboys to the playoffs in both of his seasons as their coach, but was fired after an 18-14 record and losses in their first playoff game each year. All Steelers assistant coaches are under contract through at least 2007. That was seen as a positive for either Grimm or Whisenhunt if either became their head coach. The Steelers, however, traditionally let their new coach hire his own staff and, if a candidate from outside is hired, he might have an entirely different view of the assistants he wants to hire.NOTES -- Former West Virginia quarterback Rasheed Marshall is among the latest three players the Steelers have signed to 2007 contracts. The other two are defensive backs Grant Mason and Harrison Smith. Marshall, now a wide receiver, played in 12 games in 2005 with the San Francisco 49ers, returning 17 punts for a 5.1-yard average and 26 kickoffs for an 18.8-yard average. He was a fifth-round draft pick of the 49ers in 2005.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------(Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

 

[pfalvey]

I can buy bringing in Gailey for genuine consideration, but not Sherman. He just doesn't make sense and doesn't fit the Steelers. This kind of leads me to think this is a negotiating ploy and that maybe Whiz is the 1st choice but they are both trying to strengthen their position. I would really prefer Whiz over Grimm, but if push comes to shove, I doubt the Rooney's will be pressured into offering more money than they want to. Hopefully, if the Steelers really are Whiz's 1st choice, he takes what they offer. If not, I'd like to see Gailey, I think he's a good coach.

 

[Black&Gold]

I can buy bringing in Gailey for genuine consideration, but not Sherman. He just doesn't make sense and doesn't fit the Steelers. This kind of leads me to think this is a negotiating ploy and that maybe Whiz is the 1st choice but they are both trying to strengthen their position. I would really prefer Whiz over Grimm, but if push comes to shove, I doubt the Rooney's will be pressured into offering more money than they want to. Hopefully, if the Steelers really are Whiz's 1st choice, he takes what they offer. If not, I'd like to see Gailey, I think he's a good coach.

I don't want Gailey. Let's bring in a younger guy. Wiz or Grimm, maybe Rivera. I'd still like them to bring in Ferentz but maybe that isn't in the cards. I don't want Sherman either. Tomlin doesn't make sense either. The Steelers problem isn't stopping the run, isn't protecting against the pass and the Vikes were 31st in the league this seasson against the pass. I still think Wiz will take the Cardinals job and Grimm will be our coach.

 

[Godsbrother]

I don't want Gailey. Let's bring in a younger guy. Wiz or Grimm, maybe Rivera. I'd still like them to bring in Ferentz but maybe that isn't in the cards. I don't want Sherman either. Tomlin doesn't make sense either. The Steelers problem isn't stopping the run, isn't protecting against the pass and the Vikes were 31st in the league this seasson against the pass. I still think Wiz will take the Cardinals job and Grimm will be our coach.

I am with you B&G. I'd prefer Wiz to Grimm, mainly because I would like to keep the number of coaching changes to a minimum. Wiz seems to be the hotter candidate and therefore I think if he is hired there is a good chance Grimm stays on as OL coach. Then promote Arians to OC and hire new RB & WR coach. Done.If the Steelers prefer Grimm to Wiz then I can go along with that. What I don't want to hear is that Wiz was their #1 but they couldn't agree to a contract so they let him go to Arizona.I am not a big fan of Rivera or Tomlin because they run 4-3 defenses and I am concerned they might want to drop the Steelers 3-4. The Steelers just don't have the personnel to run a 4-3 and they already have one of the best defensive coordinators in the league.Of the two old guys, I would prefer Gailey to Sherman but I really don't want a retread. I can't believe the Steelers would hire either of these two guys considering how yound both Noll and Cowher were when they were hired.

 

[nightshift]

I don't want Gailey. Let's bring in a younger guy. Wiz or Grimm, maybe Rivera. I'd still like them to bring in Ferentz but maybe that isn't in the cards. I don't want Sherman either. Tomlin doesn't make sense either. The Steelers problem isn't stopping the run, isn't protecting against the pass and the Vikes were 31st in the league this seasson against the pass. I still think Wiz will take the Cardinals job and Grimm will be our coach.

I am with you B&G. I'd prefer Wiz to Grimm, mainly because I would like to keep the number of coaching changes to a minimum. Wiz seems to be the hotter candidate and therefore I think if he is hired there is a good chance Grimm stays on as OL coach. Then promote Arians to OC and hire new RB & WR coach. Done.If the Steelers prefer Grimm to Wiz then I can go along with that. What I don't want to hear is that Wiz was their #1 but they couldn't agree to a contract so they let him go to Arizona.I am not a big fan of Rivera or Tomlin because they run 4-3 defenses and I am concerned they might want to drop the Steelers 3-4. The Steelers just don't have the personnel to run a 4-3 and they already have one of the best defensive coordinators in the league.Of the two old guys, I would prefer Gailey to Sherman but I really don't want a retread. I can't believe the Steelers would hire either of these two guys considering how yound both Noll and Cowher were when they were hired.

I don't believe that either, GB. Gailey was just a filler interview for negotiations. I think The Steelers have done their due diligence, know how the real candidate is, and we'll hear about an offer very soon. AZ & Sherman were close. Bringing Wiz in for a second interview could be a bargaining ploy to get Sherman to sign for less money. (Can't figure out why you would want Sherman over Wiz, but that's fine with me). It also works for Wiz in his negotiations with the Steelers.

 

[3C's]

You guys catch this part from PFT?

We continue to have a gut feeling -- and it's just a gut feeling, which means it's roughly as accurate as reported based on the rumors we monger -- that the next coach of the Steelers will be Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin.

 

[nightshift]

You guys catch this part from PFT?

We continue to have a gut feeling -- and it's just a gut feeling, which means it's roughly as accurate as reported based on the rumors we monger -- that the next coach of the Steelers will be Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin.

I sure hope not! Say goodbye to the 3-4 defense...

 

[Memphis Foundry]

I really hope Sherman is just a leverage ploy. That's the scenario that makes the most sense -- if they were looking to extend the search and wanted to interview anyone else, they'd just do that rather than calling Sherman, so there has to be a specific reason to interview him. It's also possible they're just trying to bring in another "hot" candidate to compare him to the guys they've already talked to and make sure that they're not missing out. If neither of those are it, the only other scenario that makes sense is that they don't like any of the candidates and don't have any other guys of their own in mind, or they're stretching out the first round of interviews and waiting for one of the playoff teams to lose so they can interview someone from there.

 

[Tom Servo]

Simply put:

Grimm or Whiz:

Rivera:

Tomlin:

Sherman or Gailey:

 

[Irish]

Simply put:Grimm or Whiz: Rivera: Tomlin: Sherman or Gailey: :X

As each day goes by without a new coach, I am losing a little bit of faith that the Steelers will hire the right coach.

 

[3C's]

Simply put:Grimm or Whiz: Rivera: Tomlin: Sherman or Gailey:

Fixed to my opinion.

 

[3C's]

You guys catch this part from PFT?

We continue to have a gut feeling -- and it's just a gut feeling, which means it's roughly as accurate as reported based on the rumors we monger -- that the next coach of the Steelers will be Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin.

I sure hope not! Say goodbye to the 3-4 defense...

Not necessarily. He can't switch to a defense that he doesn't have the personnel for. Yet.

 

[pfalvey]

I don't want Gailey. Let's bring in a younger guy. Wiz or Grimm, maybe Rivera. I'd still like them to bring in Ferentz but maybe that isn't in the cards. I don't want Sherman either. Tomlin doesn't make sense either. The Steelers problem isn't stopping the run, isn't protecting against the pass and the Vikes were 31st in the league this seasson against the pass. I still think Wiz will take the Cardinals job and Grimm will be our coach.

I am with you B&G. I'd prefer Wiz to Grimm, mainly because I would like to keep the number of coaching changes to a minimum. Wiz seems to be the hotter candidate and therefore I think if he is hired there is a good chance Grimm stays on as OL coach. Then promote Arians to OC and hire new RB & WR coach. Done.If the Steelers prefer Grimm to Wiz then I can go along with that. What I don't want to hear is that Wiz was their #1 but they couldn't agree to a contract so they let him go to Arizona.I am not a big fan of Rivera or Tomlin because they run 4-3 defenses and I am concerned they might want to drop the Steelers 3-4. The Steelers just don't have the personnel to run a 4-3 and they already have one of the best defensive coordinators in the league.Of the two old guys, I would prefer Gailey to Sherman but I really don't want a retread. I can't believe the Steelers would hire either of these two guys considering how yound both Noll and Cowher were when they were hired.

News of the Steelers interest in Sherman has almost immediately been followed by the news that Whiz is sticking around in Arizona to consider a HC offer from them. I think the timing of this news strongly suggests that there is some negotiating ploys going on between the Steelers and Whiz.

 

[pfalvey]

I can buy bringing in Gailey for genuine consideration, but not Sherman. He just doesn't make sense and doesn't fit the Steelers. This kind of leads me to think this is a negotiating ploy and that maybe Whiz is the 1st choice but they are both trying to strengthen their position. I would really prefer Whiz over Grimm, but if push comes to shove, I doubt the Rooney's will be pressured into offering more money than they want to. Hopefully, if the Steelers really are Whiz's 1st choice, he takes what they offer. If not, I'd like to see Gailey, I think he's a good coach.

I don't want Gailey. Let's bring in a younger guy. Wiz or Grimm, maybe Rivera. I'd still like them to bring in Ferentz but maybe that isn't in the cards. I don't want Sherman either. Tomlin doesn't make sense either. The Steelers problem isn't stopping the run, isn't protecting against the pass and the Vikes were 31st in the league this seasson against the pass. I still think Wiz will take the Cardinals job and Grimm will be our coach.

I would be interested in Ferentz as well, but I have yet to see any concrete reports that he is a genuine candidate, although I've read where the Penn St and Steelers HC jobs are the only ones he'd leave Iowa for, so there's always a chance.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I don't want Gailey. Let's bring in a younger guy. Wiz or Grimm, maybe Rivera. I'd still like them to bring in Ferentz but maybe that isn't in the cards. I don't want Sherman either. Tomlin doesn't make sense either. The Steelers problem isn't stopping the run, isn't protecting against the pass and the Vikes were 31st in the league this seasson against the pass. I still think Wiz will take the Cardinals job and Grimm will be our coach.

I am with you B&G. I'd prefer Wiz to Grimm, mainly because I would like to keep the number of coaching changes to a minimum. Wiz seems to be the hotter candidate and therefore I think if he is hired there is a good chance Grimm stays on as OL coach. Then promote Arians to OC and hire new RB & WR coach. Done.If the Steelers prefer Grimm to Wiz then I can go along with that. What I don't want to hear is that Wiz was their #1 but they couldn't agree to a contract so they let him go to Arizona.I am not a big fan of Rivera or Tomlin because they run 4-3 defenses and I am concerned they might want to drop the Steelers 3-4. The Steelers just don't have the personnel to run a 4-3 and they already have one of the best defensive coordinators in the league.Of the two old guys, I would prefer Gailey to Sherman but I really don't want a retread. I can't believe the Steelers would hire either of these two guys considering how yound both Noll and Cowher were when they were hired.

I couldn't agree more with every word of this.

 

[Iron Mike Tomczak]

Just hurry up Steelers....this suspense is killing me.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

According to Ed Bouchette & the PG, Gailey was added to the candidates list because Bill Cowher told the Rooneys that he would hire Gailey to succeed him:

Gailey gets interview with Cowher's approval

Sunday, January 14, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

If Chan Gailey were to pull an upset and become the next Steelers head coach, he will have been Bill Cowher's handpicked successor.

Gailey, the head coach at Georgia Tech and an offensive assistant with the Steelers under Cowher in the 1990s, interviewed for three hours yesterday morning at the team's UPMC facility on the South Side. He was the fifth candidate interviewed for the job and the only one to get Cowher's stamp of approval.

There could be a sixth candidate because the Steelers have received permission from the Houston Texans to talk to Mike Sherman, a former Green Bay Packers coach and currently the assistant head coach/offense for the Texans. The Steelers have not scheduled an interview with Sherman, who has had two interviews for the head coaching job with the Arizona Cardinals.

Gailey, 55, was not among those scheduled for interviews until Cowher recommended him to Dan and Art Rooney the past week. When asked who he would hire for the job, Cowher gave them Gailey's name. They called Gailey on Wednesday and the interview was then set up.

Two of Cowher's offensive coaches have been considered the top candidates for the job -- Russ Grimm, the assistant head coach and line coach, and coordinator Ken Whisenhunt. Both also are candidates in Arizona, where Whisenhunt had a second interview Friday. He stayed an extra day yesterday at the Cardinals' request but no known offer was made to him.

Whisenhunt and Gailey also are among 12 candidates for the Miami Dolphins' job.

"I'm not trying to convince them of how to handle other people," Gailey said of other candidates. "I was talking about my situation and how I might fit into their organization. Those things are for a later date."

Two others interviewed with the Steelers the past week -- defensive coordinators Ron Rivera of the Bears and Mike Tomlin of the Vikings.

Gailey said he did not know if Cowher recommended him or not.

"I did talk to Bill Cowher. I talk to Bill Cowher a lot. But what he said, I do not know."

Gailey was a wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator with the Steelers from 1994-97 before the Dallas Cowboys hired him as head coach in 1998. He coached the Cowboys to playoffs in both of his seasons as their coach, but was fired after an 18-14 record and losses in their first playoff game each year. He later became the Miami Dolphins' offensive coordinator under Dave Wannstedt before Georgia Tech hired him.

"It went fine," Gailey said of his interview with the Rooneys and Kevin Colbert, the team's football operations director. "It's a great opportunity, this is such a great organization, has been through the years and will continue to be so. I just feel fortunate to be up here and be part of the process. It was a good day.

"I think it was a comfortable situation. I don't think I try to sell. I explain who I am and what I believe. They know a little bit about me. And then we talk about what direction we want to go in the future. That was the biggest discussion -- what direction are we headed. I thought we were on the same page in many respects."

They also talked about the current coaching staff, all of whom are under contract through at least 2007. A new head coach other than Whisenhunt or Grimm might not want to keep that staff intact.

"I think that's a question for them," Gailey said of Steelers management. "We did talk about that but I don't think that's my position to answer that at this point."

Cowher hired Gailey as receivers coach in 1994 to help develop the Steelers' passing game under coordinator Ron Erhardt. Erhardt's contract was not renewed after the 1995 season and Gailey was promoted to coordinator.

Gailey says he does not have one particular philosophy on offense.

"You just adjust and try to put your players in a position to be successful. That's my theory. I don't have a name for the offense or an offensive philosophy other than being physical, being able to run the football and then put your players in position to be successful."

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

 

[Memphis Foundry]

More good insight from Ed Bouchette here:

Things that went unsaid that January afternoon

Two leftover observations from Bill Cowher's final news conference in Pittsburgh Jan. 5:

- He did not recommend his two assistants, Russ Grimm and Ken Whisenhunt, as his successor. Not only that, he practically advised the Steelers to look elsewhere for their next head coach.

"There are a lot of really good coaches out there,'' Cowher said in an almost identical way three different times.

Maybe Cowher did not want to endorse one of his assistants over the other, but he might have recommended both of them over candidates from the outside.

- Cowher did not go out of his way to thank Steelers president Art Rooney the way he did others. He thanked "Art and Dan" at the beginning of his resignation, but never mentioned Art again even though he went on about any number of other people in the organization, including trainers and doctors. He also never shook Art's hand, at least not in front of the public at the news conference. He gave Dan Rooney a big hug.

It only added credence to the fact that Cowher grew cold toward Art Rooney near the end of the season and barely talked to him. Perhaps it had something to do with contract negotiations, since Art conducted them for the club. It might also have had something to do with a close associate of Cowher saying, "It didn't have to end like this.''

Missed opportunities in the hunt for a coach

The Steelers blew an early opportunity in their coaching search to interview some other good assistant coaches in the NFL. It's not so much that they might hire one of them -- it says here Russ Grimm and Ken Whisenhunt are by far the best two candidates -- but they might have learned some things by looking elsewhere.

What's wrong, for instance, with interviewing one of Bill Belichick's top lieutenants. Here's a coach who won three of four Super Bowls and two of his three assistants have spun off into pretty good head coaches at Notre Dame and the New York Jets. Might they not have obtained some information on the inner workings of the Patriots by interviewing Josh Mc- Daniels, their young offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach?

Perhaps if the coach they hire does not work out and they're looking for another coach in three or four years, McDaniels or someone else they interviewed this time might have left the kind of impression they would remember.

The last time the Steelers went looking for a head coach, they interviewed 12 or 13 men. This time, it was two on their own staff, two minorities and, for some reason, a late addition of Chan Gailey.

Bringing in Gailey at the last minute also raises an issue. Were they not impressed with the interviews of Whisenhunt and Grimm? Gailey, if he were one of their prime candidates, should have been on their first list rather than as an afterthought.

 

[3C's]

I'd bet that this is a courtesy interview for Gailey's work as OC in his prior stint with the Steelers.

According to a poster on another board, Cowher suggested they interview Gailey. And that they are "enamored" with Tomlin. Not sure where he got that information, but he credits Gerry Dulac...but he did misspell Gerry as Jerry. Probably not reliable.

Gailey gets interview with Cowher's approval

So that guy on that other board was right. Wonder how right he is about Tomlin? Of course enamored<>hired.

 

[Godsbrother]

More good insight from Ed Bouchette here:

Missed opportunities in the hunt for a coach

The Steelers blew an early opportunity in their coaching search to interview some other good assistant coaches in the NFL. It's not so much that they might hire one of them -- it says here Russ Grimm and Ken Whisenhunt are by far the best two candidates -- but they might have learned some things by looking elsewhere.

What's wrong, for instance, with interviewing one of Bill Belichick's top lieutenants. Here's a coach who won three of four Super Bowls and two of his three assistants have spun off into pretty good head coaches at Notre Dame and the New York Jets. Might they not have obtained some information on the inner workings of the Patriots by interviewing Josh Mc- Daniels, their young offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach?

Perhaps if the coach they hire does not work out and they're looking for another coach in three or four years, McDaniels or someone else they interviewed this time might have left the kind of impression they would remember.

The last time the Steelers went looking for a head coach, they interviewed 12 or 13 men. This time, it was two on their own staff, two minorities and, for some reason, a late addition of Chan Gailey.

Bringing in Gailey at the last minute also raises an issue. Were they not impressed with the interviews of Whisenhunt and Grimm? Gailey, if he were one of their prime candidates, should have been on their first list rather than as an afterthought.

All this article says is that Bouchette doesn't know any more than we do. None of us, including Bouchette, really knows what is going on behind the scenes.

 

[Iron Mike Tomczak]

Kens gone!

 

[Godsbrother]

Gailey gets interview with Cowher's approval

So that guy on that other board was right. Wonder how right he is about Tomlin? Of course enamored<>hired.

If Cowher and the Steelers parted on less-than-good terms as a previous post suggests, why would they care who Cowher recommended? The Rooneys already know Chan Gailey -- I doubt Cowher's recommendation had much of an impact on their decision to bring him in.

 

[Godsbrother]

Whisenhunt gone to Cardinals.

Wisenhunt to take over for Green Posted: 2 minutes ago The Arizona Cardinals have their replacement for the fired Denny Green.The Cardinals have tabbed Ken Wisenhunt as their new head coach, FOX NFL SUNDAY and FOXSports.com has learned. The former Steelers offensive coordinator has spent the last two days trying to nail down a deal and after working all night they finally got a deal done. Wisenhunt was already on the phone Sunday morning with a handful of assistant coaching options, although he's likely to keep much if not all of the Cardinals defensive staff. Wisenhunt also interviewed for the Dolphins and Steelers openings but it soon became clear that the Steelers were not jumping at a replacement for Bill Cowher.

 

[Black&Gold]

I don't mind them interviewing a lot of guys if they get the guy they want. You can't tell me that there are only a handfull of great coaches out there. If they want Grimm, then get him signed. If not, I don't see the rush. Sure, you want a guy before the FA period and for the draft, but you have some weeks. This might take a while. If they were to bring in one of these guys that run a 4-3, couldn't it be that LeBeau would just be given the reigns of the D? I could see the new coach being a guy they haven't even interviewed yet. Gailey, Tomlin, or Sherman don't do it for me, and I hope they don't for the Rooneys either.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

Yeah, I figured Whiz was gone when they said he was staying over in AZ for a second day to talk contact. The likely scenario would have been to get ballpark terms, then call the Steelers and see if they were willing to commit and at least match financials. With no guarantee from the Steelers, he's got no choice other than to get the best deal he can from AZ. I think he did what he had to for himself.

 

[Iron Mike Tomczak]

I was somewhat pessimistic about Whiz anyway. He didnt really impress me with his calls this year, I prefer Mularky's calls over Whiz actually. Thats water under the bridge anyway. Whisenhunt wasn't a firey coach that a young cowher was, and though he got the ring, I dont think hes neccessarily the best. I was all for trying him out though, since he did get the ring. If he demanded too much $ which was probly the case, its in the Steelers best interest to look elsewhere.

Grimm the Steelers could probly have at a whole sale price. He is the best candidate thus far in my opinion. Chan Gailey I can see returning to Pittsburgh as the offensive co ordinator. THis would be a move I could definately applaud.

The Steelers are probably waiting to see Rivera again before they commit, as I see him as a great option as well and the Rooneys probably do as well. I think the Steelers wait on this one, the more I think about it.

 

[monessen]

After watching the Bears defense, despite missing key starters, play so well in clutch situations against Seattle today, Rivera could very well be an outstanding motivator with smarts. The Steelers may be wise to hold off and see what happens with Chicago-New Orleans next week. After all, they allowed Whisenhunt to move on and it is not as if Grimm is going to get a head coaching gig outside of Pittsburgh. There is virtually no reason to move quickly now.

Tomlin is lauded for leading a defense stingy against the run but porous against the pass. I don't know why he'd be considered over Rivera, a guy who has been a winner. I haven't heard Tomlin's name mentioned anywhere else but Miami. Yet Miami interviewed about a dozen candidates and may not be done. Tomlin may be a couple of years away from being a real contender for a major head coaching job.

Gailey? I have to believe the Rooneys were compelled to bring him in due to his past contributions and the respect he earned while in the organization. Sounds like he is eager again to rejoin the NFL. Had they not interviewed Gailey, it would have been plausible for them to talk to Mularkey.

Hey, Rex Ryan of Baltimore can talk to anybody now that Team Billick's season is over. Makes no sense why that man hasn't gotten a call.

Finally, I have to say I'm disappointed. Cowher's departure was no sudden surprise. And yet, the organization did not move aggressively in lining up top people with great resumes. After all, it is a very attractive job. I hate to think they are being cheaper than Bidwell, but it sounds like whoever they hire will be low-balled, salary-wise, because it won't be a highly-sought after guy.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Whisenhunt exit leaves Grimm atop Steelers' coach list

Monday, January 15, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Russ Grimm became the leading candidate as the next Steelers coach when Ken Whisenhunt accepted the job to become coach of the Arizona Cardinals yesterday.

Mr. Grimm, the Steelers' assistant head coach and offensive line coach, could be named their head coach by the end of the week.

Mr. Whisenhunt, the Steelers' offensive coordinator, and Mr. Grimm were the top two candidates to replace Bill Cowher. Although three other coaches have been interviewed by the Steelers, it has long been considered a two-horse race between the team's top two offensive assistants.

The Steelers had not offered Mr. Whisenhunt or Mr. Grimm the job. They also were not given an opportunity to counter the job offer that Mr. Whisenhunt accepted from the Cardinals yesterday.

Arizona will officially announce Mr. Whisenhunt's hiring tomorrow.

The Steelers also have interviewed Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey and two defensive coordinators from NFC teams -- Ron Rivera of the Chicago Bears and Mike Tomlin of the Minnesota Vikings. By virtue of the Bears' beating the Seattle Seahawks in their playoff game yesterday, Mr. Rivera could not be hired until either Chicago loses next Sunday in the NFC championship game or until after the Feb. 4 Super Bowl.

The Steelers also asked and received permission from the Houston Texans to talk to Mike Sherman, that team's assistant head coach/offense, but an interview isn't expected to be scheduled.

Cowher last week recommended that the Steelers hire Mr. Gailey, and because of that Mr. Gailey was a late addition to the team's list of candidates and was interviewed on Saturday in Pittsburgh. However, he is not considered a viable candidate for the job.

The Steelers still could conduct a second round of interviews. If they do, Mr. Grimm and perhaps Tomlin would be those brought in. But for the Steelers to hire anyone but Mr. Grimm at this point would be considered a monumental upset. All of the Steelers' assistant coaches are under contract through next season and team officials want to keep the continuity of a staff they believe is among the best they've had on a team one year removed from a Super Bowl championship.

Because those coaches are under contract, Mr. Whisenhunt will be unable to bring many -- if any -- with him to Arizona. Mr. Grimm likely would promote wide receivers coach Bruce Arians to offensive coordinator, a job he once held in Cleveland. Mr. Grimm would have to hire a running backs coach to replace the retired **** Hoak, a receivers coach to replace Mr. Arians and an offensive line coach to replace himself.

The Steelers may allow quarterbacks coach Mark Whipple to join Mr. Whisenhunt as his offensive coordinator in Arizona. That would create another opening for a quarterbacks coach with the Steelers.

Mr. Grimm, 47, a native of Scottdale who played at Southmoreland High School, began his coaching career under Hall of Famer Joe Gibbs with the Redskins in 1992, first as tight ends coach and later as offensive line coach under Norv Turner. He joined the Steelers as offensive line coach in 2001 and added the title of assistant head coach in 2004.

He played center at Pitt and was an all-NFL 1980s guard for the famous Hogs offensive line in Washington, where he earned three Super Bowl rings. He is a finalist for the 2007 Pro Football Hall of Fame class that will be chosen Feb. 3 in Miami. Last year, the football stadium at Southmoreland High School was named after him. He played quarterback and linebacker on the football team there, center on the basketball team and threw javelin on the track team.

Mr. Whisenhunt was an unqualified success as the Steelers' offensive coordinator after Mr. Cowher promoted him from tight ends coach to the job in 2004 when Mike Mularkey left to become head coach of the Buffalo Bills.

The Steelers slumped to 6-10 in 2003, and Mr. Cowher admitted he became much too enamored with the passing game. Mr. Whisenhunt made a determined effort to run the ball in 2004 and, because of an injury to starting quarterback Tommy Maddox in the second game, he was forced to start rookie Ben Roethlisberger. The Steelers finished 15-1 that season as Mr. Roethlisberger went 13-0 as the starter, but lost in the AFC championship game to New England. Last year, the Steelers won the Super Bowl.

"Ken Whisenhunt is the kind of guy, even as a young kid when he was 18, he always had that look about him that he would accomplish anything he wanted to do," said ESPN commentator Bill Curry, who coached Mr. Whisenhunt at Georgia Tech. "Not only did he think that, he had the work ethic to follow through and do that. Whatever he set his sights on, you got the sense this guy is going to do it."

Mr. Whisenhunt becomes the fifth coach to go directly from Mr. Cowher's staff to an NFL head coaching job. Grimm would be the sixth.

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

(Staff writer Gerry Dulac contributed to this story. Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Bob Smizik: Grimm the logical choice for the Steelers' job

More substance than style, Grimm clearly is the logical choice to succeed Cowher

Monday, January 15, 2007

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

There's an excellent chance the next Steelers coach will be a no-nonsense Western Pennsylvania tough guy, who, despite such a style, is loved by his players. He'll be a coach who will give time to the media, but not gladly. He'll be angry in defeat and step to the back in victory. He'll have little use for small talk and will have an extremely small circle of confidants.

No, Bill Cowher is not being rehired.

By most indications, assistant head coach Russ Grimm is being promoted.

Grimm, who liked nothing better than being in the distant background, unseen and unheard, could be named Cowher's successor by the middle of the week.

The Arizona Cardinals' decision to name Steelers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt their head coach leaves Grimm the obvious and correct choice for the Steelers.

Whisenhunt and Grimm were the leading candidates to succeed Cowher. They were two of five coaches interviewed for the job. The other three were Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin and Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey, who is a former Steelers offensive coordinator.

That Grimm, who is also the Steelers' offensive line coach, will be named a head coach after Whisenhunt is not an indication he was the Steelers' second choice.

By taking their time, the Rooney family allowed both of their guys to get jobs. If they had named Grimm before Arizona made a decision, it's possible Arizona would have balked at taking a coach already deemed not good enough by another team.

Such maneuvering is rare in the NFL, and Dan Rooney, self-assured and almost ego-less, is one of the few owners who would make it. He got the man he wanted and nothing else mattered.

In Grimm, the Steelers have a coach extremely comfortable with who he is. He has never sought the spotlight, like so many assistants hungry for a promotion. It has often been said offensive linemen are the smartest players on the field, they just never let anyone know it. Grimm fits that mold.

It might have been the way he carries himself as much as his football knowledge, which is said to be considerable, that won Grimm the job. In fact, it could be Grimm's outward similarities to Cowher that might have most gained him favor with the Rooneys.

Grimm was a finalist for the Chicago Bears' job in 2004 that went to Lovie Smith. There was speculation Grimm was offered the job first but refused it when he was told what assistant coaches he had to keep. It says a lot about Grimm that such speculation came from other people and never from him.

Grimm was the quintessential offensive lineman. After initially having trouble accepting a switch from quarterback/linebacker to center in his early days at Pitt, he took keenly to his new assignment. Tutored by the great offensive line coach Joe Moore, he quietly became one of the best, even while other teammates at Pitt were gaining the accolades.

He never got the notice of Mark May, who won the Outland Trophy, and Jimbo Covert, who was named to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Both were All-Americans and first-round draft choices. Grimm was taken in the third round in 1980 by the Washington Redskins, where he was converted to guard. He went on to an excellent career and was one of 15 semifinalist named last week for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The Steelers lose a first-rate offensive coordinator in Whisenhunt. But, like almost all others in such roles, he is not irreplaceable. Whisenhunt was critical to the Steelers' offensive success but not the only reason for it. There are other bright offensive thinkers and other coaches who can capably tutor fourth-year quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who took a backward step last season.

Should Grimm or his offensive coordinator make changes in the Steelers' offense, subtle or otherwise, it's not something Roethlisberger can't overcome. He led the Steelers to a 15-1 record in his first year in their offense and to a Super Bowl in his second.

Grimm probably has some strong ideas on who will get the job. There are two good candidates already with the team: wide receivers coach Bruce Arians, who has been an offensive coordinator on the college and NFL level, and quarterbacks coach Mark Whipple. Both men have been head coaches on the college level.

It's hard to speculate on what specific offensive and defensive philosophies Grimm will embrace as a head coach because as an assistant he did his job and kept his mouth shut. When Cowher resigned he said he took satisfaction in having done it his way. And that's another area where Grimm mirrors Cowher. He, too, will do it his way.

 

[Godsbrother]

Whisenhunt exit leaves Grimm atop Steelers' coach list

Monday, January 15, 2007

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Russ Grimm became the leading candidate as the next Steelers coach when Ken Whisenhunt accepted the job to become coach of the Arizona Cardinals yesterday.

Mr. Grimm, the Steelers' assistant head coach and offensive line coach, could be named their head coach by the end of the week.

Mr. Whisenhunt, the Steelers' offensive coordinator, and Mr. Grimm were the top two candidates to replace Bill Cowher. Although three other coaches have been interviewed by the Steelers, it has long been considered a two-horse race between the team's top two offensive assistants.

The Steelers had not offered Mr. Whisenhunt or Mr. Grimm the job. They also were not given an opportunity to counter the job offer that Mr. Whisenhunt accepted from the Cardinals yesterday.

Arizona will officially announce Mr. Whisenhunt's hiring tomorrow.

The Steelers also have interviewed Georgia Tech coach Chan Gailey and two defensive coordinators from NFC teams -- Ron Rivera of the Chicago Bears and Mike Tomlin of the Minnesota Vikings. By virtue of the Bears' beating the Seattle Seahawks in their playoff game yesterday, Mr. Rivera could not be hired until either Chicago loses next Sunday in the NFC championship game or until after the Feb. 4 Super Bowl.

The Steelers also asked and received permission from the Houston Texans to talk to Mike Sherman, that team's assistant head coach/offense, but an interview isn't expected to be scheduled.

Cowher last week recommended that the Steelers hire Mr. Gailey, and because of that Mr. Gailey was a late addition to the team's list of candidates and was interviewed on Saturday in Pittsburgh. However, he is not considered a viable candidate for the job.

The Steelers still could conduct a second round of interviews. If they do, Mr. Grimm and perhaps Tomlin would be those brought in. But for the Steelers to hire anyone but Mr. Grimm at this point would be considered a monumental upset. All of the Steelers' assistant coaches are under contract through next season and team officials want to keep the continuity of a staff they believe is among the best they've had on a team one year removed from a Super Bowl championship.

Because those coaches are under contract, Mr. Whisenhunt will be unable to bring many -- if any -- with him to Arizona. Mr. Grimm likely would promote wide receivers coach Bruce Arians to offensive coordinator, a job he once held in Cleveland. Mr. Grimm would have to hire a running backs coach to replace the retired **** Hoak, a receivers coach to replace Mr. Arians and an offensive line coach to replace himself.

The Steelers may allow quarterbacks coach Mark Whipple to join Mr. Whisenhunt as his offensive coordinator in Arizona. That would create another opening for a quarterbacks coach with the Steelers.

Mr. Grimm, 47, a native of Scottdale who played at Southmoreland High School, began his coaching career under Hall of Famer Joe Gibbs with the Redskins in 1992, first as tight ends coach and later as offensive line coach under Norv Turner. He joined the Steelers as offensive line coach in 2001 and added the title of assistant head coach in 2004.

He played center at Pitt and was an all-NFL 1980s guard for the famous Hogs offensive line in Washington, where he earned three Super Bowl rings. He is a finalist for the 2007 Pro Football Hall of Fame class that will be chosen Feb. 3 in Miami. Last year, the football stadium at Southmoreland High School was named after him. He played quarterback and linebacker on the football team there, center on the basketball team and threw javelin on the track team.

Mr. Whisenhunt was an unqualified success as the Steelers' offensive coordinator after Mr. Cowher promoted him from tight ends coach to the job in 2004 when Mike Mularkey left to become head coach of the Buffalo Bills.

The Steelers slumped to 6-10 in 2003, and Mr. Cowher admitted he became much too enamored with the passing game. Mr. Whisenhunt made a determined effort to run the ball in 2004 and, because of an injury to starting quarterback Tommy Maddox in the second game, he was forced to start rookie Ben Roethlisberger. The Steelers finished 15-1 that season as Mr. Roethlisberger went 13-0 as the starter, but lost in the AFC championship game to New England. Last year, the Steelers won the Super Bowl.

"Ken Whisenhunt is the kind of guy, even as a young kid when he was 18, he always had that look about him that he would accomplish anything he wanted to do," said ESPN commentator Bill Curry, who coached Mr. Whisenhunt at Georgia Tech. "Not only did he think that, he had the work ethic to follow through and do that. Whatever he set his sights on, you got the sense this guy is going to do it."

Mr. Whisenhunt becomes the fifth coach to go directly from Mr. Cowher's staff to an NFL head coaching job. Grimm would be the sixth.

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

(Staff writer Gerry Dulac contributed to this story. Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. )

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

 

[crowe1130]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

Smizik's article didn't have the "Mr."s in it.....

 

[3C's]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

I was thinking the same thing. I almost stopped reading it because of all the Mr.'s.

 

[Godsbrother]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

Smizik's article didn't have the "Mr."s in it.....

There has been at least 4 articles in the past 2 weeks that had all of the "Mr."s in it. I am not sure who is doing it but it is really annoying.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

Smizik's article didn't have the "Mr."s in it.....

There has been at least 4 articles in the past 2 weeks that had all of the "Mr."s in it. I am not sure who is doing it but it is really annoying.

Yeah, it really is.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

Smizik's article didn't have the "Mr."s in it.....

There has been at least 4 articles in the past 2 weeks that had all of the "Mr."s in it. I am not sure who is doing it but it is really annoying.

Mr. ACP agrees with Mr. Godsbrother.

 

[Memphis Foundry]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

Smizik's article didn't have the "Mr."s in it.....

There has been at least 4 articles in the past 2 weeks that had all of the "Mr."s in it. I am not sure who is doing it but it is really annoying.

Yeah, it really is.

Hey buddy, no pronouns allowed in here.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I want to shoot the editor on the PPG staff that insists on putting "Mr." before everyone's last name. It is very annoying.

Is that just in these coaching articles or is it a PPG policy? Some papers (notably NYT) do that for everyone in every article.

Smizik's article didn't have the "Mr."s in it.....

There has been at least 4 articles in the past 2 weeks that had all of the "Mr."s in it. I am not sure who is doing it but it is really annoying.

Yeah, it really is.

Hey buddy, no pronouns allowed in here.

 

[SteelerMurf]

Finally, I have to say I'm disappointed. Cowher's departure was no sudden surprise. And yet, the organization did not move aggressively in lining up top people with great resumes. After all, it is a very attractive job. I hate to think they are being cheaper than Bidwell, but it sounds like whoever they hire will be low-balled, salary-wise, because it won't be a highly-sought after guy.

Only Miami remains as needing a head coach and they don't want Grimm or Rivera....soooooWhat is the hurry on hiring a coach. They obviously were not seriously considering Whiz or he would have been signed. Grimm is no longer a candidate anywhere. So he is either to going to STeelers head coach or bust.They are in no competition with Rivera either and they just may be sitting by waiting for Chicago's season to end.Why do you say it will be a low ball salary coach? What makes a guy highly sought after? College coaches...no thanks. Re-treads like Mora....no thanks. Rivera is highly sought after but there are no job opening right now.What people have they not interviewed that you think they should? Did you think they were gonna bring in Bill Walsh or something?

 

[Godsbrother]

Finally, I have to say I'm disappointed. Cowher's departure was no sudden surprise. And yet, the organization did not move aggressively in lining up top people with great resumes. After all, it is a very attractive job. I hate to think they are being cheaper than Bidwell, but it sounds like whoever they hire will be low-balled, salary-wise, because it won't be a highly-sought after guy.

Only Miami remains as needing a head coach and they don't want Grimm or Rivera....soooooWhat is the hurry on hiring a coach. They obviously were not seriously considering Whiz or he would have been signed. Grimm is no longer a candidate anywhere. So he is either to going to STeelers head coach or bust.They are in no competition with Rivera either and they just may be sitting by waiting for Chicago's season to end.Why do you say it will be a low ball salary coach? What makes a guy highly sought after? College coaches...no thanks. Re-treads like Mora....no thanks. Rivera is highly sought after but there are no job opening right now.What people have they not interviewed that you think they should? Did you think they were gonna bring in Bill Walsh or something?

The Steelers may be frugal but they most certainly aren't stupid. They weren't outbid for Whis -- they never extended an offer to him. There must be something they didn't like about him. At this point you just have to trust that the Steelers know what they're doing.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Finally, I have to say I'm disappointed. Cowher's departure was no sudden surprise. And yet, the organization did not move aggressively in lining up top people with great resumes. After all, it is a very attractive job. I hate to think they are being cheaper than Bidwell, but it sounds like whoever they hire will be low-balled, salary-wise, because it won't be a highly-sought after guy.

Only Miami remains as needing a head coach and they don't want Grimm or Rivera....soooooWhat is the hurry on hiring a coach. They obviously were not seriously considering Whiz or he would have been signed. Grimm is no longer a candidate anywhere. So he is either to going to STeelers head coach or bust.They are in no competition with Rivera either and they just may be sitting by waiting for Chicago's season to end.Why do you say it will be a low ball salary coach? What makes a guy highly sought after? College coaches...no thanks. Re-treads like Mora....no thanks. Rivera is highly sought after but there are no job opening right now.What people have they not interviewed that you think they should? Did you think they were gonna bring in Bill Walsh or something?

The Steelers may be frugal but they most certainly aren't stupid. They weren't outbid for Whis -- they never extended an offer to him. There must be something they didn't like about him. At this point you just have to trust that the Steelers know what they're doing.

I think this is right on. If the Steelers wanted Wiz they had ample time to sign him or at least let him know he was their guy. I am sure they have their reasons for taking their time. I think the only downfall on waiting out the process is the possibility that you may lose some coaches. Now if Grimm is the eventual HC that isn't as big of a problem. But I can envision a scenario where Wiz will want to add Arians or Whipple as his offensive coordinator. Grimm can't make the same offer if he hasn't yet been named head coach.

 

[nightshift]

Patience Prudence.

Name one other NFL team that has an excellent track record hiring head coaches like the Steelers. I think the Rooneys know what to do.

I think you guys are dead on. If Wiz was the guy, they'd hired him. BTW, he must have went cheap to go to the Cardinals. My guess is that he won't there long.

Anyone think the Steelers might be biding their time in a hold out for Rivera?

 

[Evilgrin 72]

On a more sobering topic...

Funeral services for Ken Whisenhunt's head coaching career will be held tomorrow afternoon at 3:00 at Boron Funeral Home, 1719 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh. Anyone wishing to donate flowers should send them to this address, or make a cash donation to the Whisenhunt Family Fund, designed to ensure that the widow Whisenhunt will not be forced to subsist on cat food in her old age.

 

[nightshift]

BTW, it took almost a month to hire Cowher.

 

[Godsbrother]

Not saying they will but now that the Chargers and Ravens are eliminated the Steelers could bring in Cam Cameron (Chargers OC) or Rex Ryan (Ravens DC) for a look-see.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Grimm or somebody from the defensive side of the ball (it's all about mindset and team personality) preferably with some ties to Pittsburgh. This is what I have wanted the entire time. I'm glad Whiz isnt the choice and happy the Steelers havent rushed the process.

 

[monessen]

Steeler fans who don't seem sorry to see Whisenhunt go must have short memories. After the 1997 AFC championship game against Denver, there was no lamenting when Chan Gailey left for Dallas, largely because he was blamed for some ill-conceived pass Kordell threw that was picked off, which was cited as "the reason" Pittsburgh lost that game. It was assumed Kordell had arrived as a superstar.

Does anyone recall that the Steelers hired Ray Sherman to "succeed" Gailey as Offensive Coordinator? Yeah, that was quite the coup. Anybody recall 1998? Kordell without Gailey? We could see a revival called Roethlisberger without Whisenhunt.

Essentially, the Rooneys are back with the Mike Browns and Bill Bidwells of the NFL world. The Post-Gazette article even insinuates that the eventual head coach will be Pittsburgh's second choice. Grimm was no one's first choice. Had he been, he'd be a head coach at this moment.

I won't argue with anyone who says "The Rooneys know what they're doing." They clearly know. It means packing the stadium, selling the merchandise, trying to stay competitive, etc. But don't overrate their judgment when it comes to decisions like the one on the table. Let's just say they've been more conservative in their approach to finding a coach this time than any Steeler ground attack has been in its history.