Well, we’ve come to that time in the NFL season. It’s Week 13, and the
playoff picture is coming into focus. The teams in the hunt are clear. And the
teams simply playing out the string are painfully evident.
Here’s a list of coaches likely to be out of a job soon. Some will be
put out to pasture at the end of the season, some maybe sooner.
Norv Turner, Chargers – This
one is past due. Norv has been turning great talent into mediocre records for
years in San Diego. He and A.J. Smith are both gone.
Andy Reid, Eagles – Owner
Jeffrey Lurie said before the season that a repeat of last year’s 8-8 record
wasn’t good enough. I don’t see any way Philly makes it back to .500. But Andy
won’t be out of work for long.
Romeo Crennel, Chiefs – There’s
no two ways about it. Having one win through 12 weeks will get you fired.
Question is, will GM Scott Pioli get to choose the new HC or will he also be
out of work?
Ron Rivera, Panthers – GM
Marty Hurney is already gone. Can his hand-picked coach Ron Rivera, only in his
second season in Carolina, be far behind? He’s likely gone as a new GM will
want his own guy.
Jason Garrett, Cowboys – I’m
not sure on this one. Jerry says he loves him, but Jerry hates losing more than
he loves anything.
Rex Ryan, Jets – This call
will probably be made by Jets Owner Woody Johnson. New York loves Rex, but will
his two consecutive AFC Championship Game appearance get him one more year to
prove it. He’s probably coming back.
Chan Gailey, Bills – He’s a
good offensive coordinator, but it is obvious that this train is only going in
circles. Gailey is likely let go.
Pat Shurmur, Browns – The
Browns have been playing tough, improved football the past few weeks. But new
owner Jimmy Haslam may have plans to install his coach. I expect to see Shurmur
follow Mike Holmgren out the door.
Ken Whisenhunt, Cardinals – The
Cards’ Superbowl appearance a couple season ago bought him some time and
patience. This team seems to be headed in the wrong direction. It needs a good
QB. And maybe a new coach.
Mike Mularkey, Jaguars – Nice
guy. Bad head coach. The skiddish nature of Blaine Gabbert hasn’t helped. Doubt
to see him back in Jax next season.
So who am I missing? Where do I have the order all messed up? Sound
off; give me your list.
Thanks for reading.
Steve
