Potential Head Coaches

[Dpantherman]

Pat Shurmer, 45- 1999-2008- QB coach under Andy Reid. 2009-present Rams OC.

Pat Shurmur enters his second year as offensive coordinator with the Rams. In 2009, Shumur coached running back Steven Jackson to his second Pro Bowl berth. Under Shumur, Jackson finished with the NFC rushing title after tallying 1,416 yards, the second highest total of his career. Jackson also produced 1,738 total yards from scrimmage, second-highest total in the NFC. He rushed for 100 yards in a careerhigh seven games.

Shurmur joined the Rams after seven seasons as quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb earned three of his five Pro Bowl berths during Shurmur’s tenure. McNabb finished among the top 10 in the NFL in attempts (571, fourth), completions (345, fifth), yards (3,916, seventh) and touchdowns (23, eighth) in 2008. His 345 completions and 3,916 passing yards set Eagles single-season records.

In 2004, Shurmur guided McNabb to the most productive season of his career, in which McNabb established franchise records in passer rating (104.7) and completion percentage (64.0). McNabb also became the first quarterback in NFL history to have a season with 30-plus touchdown passes (31) and fewer than 10 interceptions (eight)

consider him a wild card

[jramsey4]

Why in the dysfunk does everybody think Harbaugh is a legit candidate; ridiculous. Oh yeah, my bad: It's because he coaches in the meat-grinder PAC-10 and has such a long, successful record there. Mike Riley is a better candidate. Age of our next HC means about as much as JR's. I'm sure we could find a relative of Lombardi's since, you know, pedigree and all. C'mon man!

I could sit here and poke holes at any potential candiate you brought up. No one is perfect. What most of the Harbaugh supporters (including myself) like is his Fire and "Take no Prisoners" attitude. The guy plays big or goes home. I for one am tired of this conservative crap. Where has it gotten us? A SB appearance 3/4 of a decade ago.

[magnus]

I'd have to look it up, but I could swear I remember Fangio coaching a 4-3 somewhere in one of his stops after the Panthers. Vague memory says Bills or Colts, but I can't say fr certain without looking it up.

With regard to McDermott, I know you're a bigger fan of the West Coast than I am, though I'd have to admit that Clausen's skill set is way better suited to the WCO than our scheme.

I do think he could get Jauron, but my gut feeling is that the Eagles want him to be Reid's successor, so I doubt he or anyone else will be taking off.

I'm also not on the Weis bandwagon, though I may profile him as a possible candidate. Ditto for Mike McCoy, who I'd consider highly unlikely but since people are asking...

I don't think the Eagles are worried about firing Reid. I would think Jauron's a logical candidate for the DC, since losing McDermott seems inevitable.

But, for me, I've always found being able to get other guys off an existing staff much less likely than you (McGinnis, remember?). I've felt it almost impossible, save for staffs like the Ravens while Billick was there (when letting a Jack Del Rio go wasn't 'necessary' but still honorable since it was an upgrade for him). I'm still surprised Shurmur was allowed to interview.

Guys I could completely see going - third tier assistants. Doug Pederson (started that few minutes for McNabb as a rookie) from the Eagles, for instance - I don't see him getting a promotion anytime soon. Cris Dishman, the former Pro Bowler, works with Rivera, as a third tier guy. You're not coaching a position, you're entry level. Why not let your third tier guys get some experience with someone? Those guys are available. Remember, two of our 3rd tiers of the original staff became position coaches - Al Reynolds went with JDR the next year, and Sunseri became a position coach to fill behind Trgovac. Later that year Flajole became a position coach after being hired as the next defensive third-tier. So two of our longest tenured position coaches came in without positions to coach. You can find good coaches that way.

[FreeDrinkMafia]

I could sit here and poke holes at any potential candiate you brought up.

I only brought up Mike Riley, and that was sarcasm.

[scpanther22]

Gantt tweets on the subject

Last word for tonight on Panthers coaches. Wide net will be cast. Preconceived notions will be shelved. Looking for a special, 10-year guy.

Not that he needs my endorsement, but Brian's a future head coach someday. RT @Steven2885 I really like Baker, hope we keep entire D staff.

Maybe. If Meeks leaves, hire Brian Baker as DC and don't look back. RT @Steven2885 Could Meeks and staff stay, if we have an O minded HC?

The people who decide these things prefer the mindset of D coaches, and it has nothing to do with scheme. Has to do with problem-solving.

O-minded guys have a chance here now. RT @RMW_2 thoughts RT @SI_PeterKing: RT Who replaces Fox? 1 Brian Schottenheimer; 2 Chris Petersen

http://twitter.com/daringantt

[Mr. Scot]

I don't think the Eagles are worried about firing Reid. I would think Jauron's a logical candidate for the DC, since losing McDermott seems inevitable.

But, for me, I've always found being able to get other guys off an existing staff much less likely than you (McGinnis, remember?). I've felt it almost impossible, save for staffs like the Ravens while Billick was there (when letting a Jack Del Rio go wasn't 'necessary' but still honorable since it was an upgrade for him). I'm still surprised Shurmur was allowed to interview.

Guys I could completely see going - third tier assistants. Doug Pederson (started that few minutes for McNabb as a rookie) from the Eagles, for instance - I don't see him getting a promotion anytime soon. Cris Dishman, the former Pro Bowler, works with Rivera, as a third tier guy. You're not coaching a position, you're entry level. Why not let your third tier guys get some experience with someone? Those guys are available. Remember, two of our 3rd tiers of the original staff became position coaches - Al Reynolds went with JDR the next year, and Sunseri became a position coach to fill behind Trgovac. Later that year Flajole became a position coach after being hired as the next defensive third-tier. So two of our longest tenured position coaches came in without positions to coach. You can find good coaches that way.

I don't have Reid being fired, but I could definitely see him retiring in a few years (especially given the family issues he's had). It's not a stretch to think the Eagles could see McDermott as an heir apparent.

I'd actually like having Jauron as a DC here, whether under McDermott or not. It could give some stability to that spot since he's fairly proven as an assistant but a two time failure as a head coach. Hence, nobody's gonna be looking for him as an HC candidate.

Guys from existing staffs can be had in those times when teams allow them to seek advancement (some teams do) or at times when their contracts are up. There might conceivably be more of that this year given the labor uncertainty. Of course, if it gets settled, then guys could have contract extensions waiting for them. The Steelers let Keith Butler interview for a DC job elsewhere (Arizona I think) last season despite the fact that he's generally considered the successor to Dick LeBeau.

As far as staffs that might be "raidable", you might want to include the Bengals. Marvin Lewis is in essentially the same position as Fox right now, though he's looking like a better prospect to keep his job than Fox. And of course, you never know what Mike Brown is thinking (or if).

Meant to ask what you thought of Pete Carmichael Jr. Pretty sure his dad coached every aspect of the game at some point in his career, and did okay. Junior is a figurehead OC ala McCoy though. Unknown whether the genes passed.

[Mr. Scot]

RON RIVERA

...

CURRENT JOB: Defensive Coordinator, San Diego Chargers

HISTORY: Chargers DC (2008-present) Chargers LB Coach (2007) Bears DC (2004-2006) Eagles LB Coach (1999-2003) Bears Defensive QC Coach (1997-1998)

DOB: 01/07/62 (48)

STRENGTHS: Defenses have always been aggressive. Emphasizes stripping the ball, so his units tend to force a lot of turnovers. Has studied under some great defensive minds (Lovie Smith, Jim Johnson) and was coached by Mike Ditka.

QUESTIONS: Has gotten head coaching interviews, but no job offers. Career at one point looked to be going in the wrong direction when he wound up being let go by the Bears and took a step back to be an LB coach with the Chargers.

PANTHER CONNECTIONS: Coached safety Chris Harris, who brought his ball stripping ways to the Panthers for three years before being traded back to his old team.

WHO HE MIGHT BRING WITH HIM: Don Johnson (not that one). Chargers defensive line coach was a co-worker with Rivera in Chicago as well. I also wonder of WR Coach Charlie Joiner would like to try his hand as an OC.

WHY WE MIGHT NOT GET HIM: Competition, but I wonder how much there will be.

ODDS AND ENDS: Like Leslie Frazier, a member of the 85 Bears team. Like Panthers GM Marty Hurney, was a sports reporter (worked for Chicago superstation WGN for three years) before starting his career in football management/coaching. One of a very few Hispanic coaches in the NFL.

ANALYSIS: There might not be a bigger enigma among coaching candidates than Rivera. He’s been considered a potential head coach since his days in Chicago, but despite being interviewed more than once, his head coaching opportunity has never arisen. It’s been speculated that he’s a poor interview (only the people who’ve actually interviewed him could confirm that, of course). Whatever the reason, something hasn’t been there. There’s certainly the possibility of some turnover on the Chargers staff this coming season. I wonder if Leslie Frazier would bring him in as a DC if he got a head coaching job.

READ UP: Chargers Coaching Bio

WATCH: Ron Rivera Post-Practice Press Conference

UPDATE (11/25): Old teammate Leslie Frazier is now head coach of the Vikings. Scenarios involving Rivera joining him there are still possible, as are those that involve Rivera joining the staff of Jim Harbaugh should he get an NFL job in Charlotte or elsewhere. A lot depends on what happens to the Chargers coaching staff this offseason, and with A J Smith in charge, that's hard to predict.

[Mr. Scot]

RUSS GRIMM

...

CURRENT JOB: Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Line Coach/Run Game Coordinator, Arizona Cardinals

HISTORY: Cardinals Assistant Head Coach / OL Coach (2007-present, added Run Game Coordinator title in 2009) Steelers Assistant Head Coach / OL Coach (2004-2006) Steelers OL Coach (2000-2003) Redskins OL Coach (1997-1999) Redskins TE Coach (1992-1996)

DOB: 05/02/59 (51)

STRENGTHS: Unquestioned reputation as a true “tough guy”. Emphasizes discipline. His offensive lines have frequently given up the fewest sacks and been the least penalized. Highly respected in the league. An alumnus of the Steeler system that Jerry Richardson admires. Has worked under great offensive minds like Norv Turner and Ken Whisenhunt as well as spending a lot of time learning under successful Steelers coach Bill Cowher and a year under legendary Redskins coach Joe Gibbs.

QUESTIONS: Generally acknowledged as a strong assistant, but not everyone believes he’ll make a great head coach. Has never been a coordinator and might not be a strong Xs and Os guy. Great players have often not made great head coaches (see Singletary, Mike).

PANTHER CONNECTIONS: Was playing for the Redskins when Panther GM Marty Hurney joined the team PR department (1988-89). Was brought to the Redskins by Hurney mentor Bobby Beathard. Former Panthers OC Dan Henning was his OC for four of the ten years he spent in Washington. Currently oaches alongside former Panthers OLB coach Bill Davis (the coach that Kevin Greene choked on the sidelines). Currently coaching former Panther Jeremy Bridges. Was part of the staff that demolished the Panthers playoff hopes in 2008. Grimm's son Cody plays safety for the division rival Bucs.

WHO HE MIGHT BRING WITH HIM: Unlikely Davis would make a lateral move to come back here, unless Whisenhunt wants someone else for the job (possible since there are some questions on the defensive side). DB Coach Donnie Henderson has been a DC before and could be again. Might give current Cards pass game coordinator (and former Steelers coaching mate) Mike Miller a shot at being his OC.

WHY WE MIGHT NOT GET HIM: Another hot commodity, but could be hurt more by the fact that the Panthers have generally preferred defensive coaches.

ODDS AND ENDS: Grimm has been considered as a head coach candidate before. The Bears were looking at him before they hired Lovie Smith. It was believed at one point that he was a lock to replace Bill Cowher as the Steelers head coach before Mike Tomlin was given the job. The story has been told that Grimm was the guy before the NFL stepped in and told the Steelers it would be nice if the team from whom “The Rooney Rule” had come would hire a minority coach. Whether or not this story is true is unknown, but Grimm left the Steelers shortly thereafter (some said on bad terms).

ANALYSIS: How much stock do you put in the “assistant head coach” title? Grimm’s held it with two different teams, but he’s never been directly in charge of a whole unit (offense, defense or special teams). The current “run game coordinator” title is as close as he’s come, and how great is the Cardinals run game right now? Believe it or not, they actually have fewer rush yards per game than the Panthers.

Still, he's a guy I'd love to see the Panthers at least consider. After all, if you want to emulate the Steelers, why not pick up a guy who went through their system? It's been suggested that Grimm used his Hall of Fame induction speech to pitch himself for a head coaching job. He may indeed get his shot next season somewhere. Could be here, and I wouldn't mind if it was, but I'm not counting on it.

READ UP: Cardinals Coaching Bio

WATCH: Russ Grimm's Hall of Fame Speech

[Mr. Scot]

More tomorrow. Six of the initial eleven names listed done so far.

Trying to get the shells of these profiles up (maybe one a day) and might flesh them out more so later.

Naturally, more will be known by season's end.

[Bj-monster56]

Right now if you ask me A defensive coordinator has a good shot, as been our coach.Just because the simple fact that, Thats all Jerry Richardson picked to be our coach and it be alot of Defensive coordinators looking for a head coaching job then offensive guys.Right now i see the panthers going young and thats most likely with Leslie frazier, other then Frazier i have to say Chuck Cecil the reason why He has one of the best defense in the NFL with a bunch of nobodys.Leading the league in sacks.And Right now Just right now He is HOT and you nobody somebody will try 2 go after him. He hasnt been d-coordiantor for lng just about 2 years.So i know you are say what about Sean mcdermott I think he needs more time at been d-coordinator.Like i said the team with the best defense who coordinator that is has the best shot at been the panthers coach..

Also Wade Phillps and Norv Turner.. I believe if any one of these guys come Available he will try his shot with them.They are older "YES" but they can turn a franchise around, Especially Wade.. Norv Turner is a good coach but i believe he focus more on one side of the ball more then another.

[magnus]

re: Rivera:

I wonder if Leslie Frazier would bring him in as a DC if he got a head coaching job.

They have the tampa 2 in common, and the playing days, but they'd need to both be available. I don't see that as necessarily likely.

Hard to say what D he'd want, 3-4? 4-6? Tampa 2? Johnson's version of the 4-3? He's got time in all. What offense? These things are fairly critical to his case, or really anyone's, and that's a bit of a missing piece in the writeups.

[magnus]

And you wrote 2 paragraphs and said nothing. You don't know who he would pick or even who would be available. And you don't need to have buddies to pick folks just need to have a good philosophy and able to be a good judge of people. Did Fox work with Henning before he picked him as OC. Not that I can tell. What about Jack Del Rio. No connection I saw.

because you don't know what you're talking about. Fox had connections to both coaches from past stops in the NFL - in Henning's case, they worked across from each other in Meadowlands and Weis recommended him.

I dunno. If all you have is "anything is possible/you don't know", don't bother.

[magnus]

I'd actually like having Jauron as a DC here, whether under McDermott or not. It could give some stability to that spot since he's fairly proven as an assistant but a two time failure as a head coach. Hence, nobody's gonna be looking for him as an HC candidate.

not against Jauron, but not statistically better than Meeks.

Guys from existing staffs can be had in those times when teams allow them to seek advancement (some teams do) or at times when their contracts are up. There might conceivably be more of that this year given the labor uncertainty. Of course, if it gets settled, then guys could have contract extensions waiting for them. The Steelers let Keith Butler interview for a DC job elsewhere (Arizona I think) last season despite the fact that he's generally considered the successor to Dick LeBeau.

it's still fairly rare. You don't just go and get guys, is my point, which is where I generally disagree with the idea of bringing other coaches with you. Hell, that concept is what killed a 14-2 Chargers team.

Meant to ask what you thought of Pete Carmichael Jr. Pretty sure his dad coached every aspect of the game at some point in his career, and did okay. Junior is a figurehead OC ala McCoy though. Unknown whether the genes passed.

He knows that offense (this offense - not unlike watching the Pats O, really - is the same O. Ours is the only one that intends to really run the ball well). That's a positive. Does Payton call plays? Sure. I assume he does a fair part of gameplans too. So it's an exaggerated version of the Brian Schottenheimer/Bill Callahan deal. You can't get both, so in getting Schottenheimer you're getting the raw end of the deal (statisticaly the run is the Jets power, by far).

I'm not big on anyone in this division.

[Mr. Scot]

re: Rivera:

They have the tampa 2 in common, and the playing days, but they'd need to both be available. I don't see that as necessarily likely.

Hard to say what D he'd want, 3-4? 4-6? Tampa 2? Johnson's version of the 4-3? He's got time in all. What offense? These things are fairly critical to his case, or really anyone's, and that's a bit of a missing piece in the writeups.

Outside of Grimm or Harbaugh, the only one who really has an offensive tie-in that I could really make a case for would be McDermott. Any of the rest, it'd really just be speculation (not that a fair amount of this isn't, anyway).

Rivera's availability could tie in to how the Chargers feel about Turner. Tough to predict right now.

Gantt seems to think it's possible Meeks could join Fox with a new team, leading to Brian Baker succeeding him as Panthers DC. Not sure it'd happen, but the idea interests me.