It appears Joe Gibbs' second stint with the Redskins has come to an end. I think his decision will catch most of his players by surprise after going through such an emotional season together.
But you can't say it's shocking when a 67-year-old man walks away from such a stressful profession. In the weeks since Sean Taylor's tragic death, Gibbs has been a rock for the entire organization. But I'm sure he's been been stripped bare, both mentally and physically.
The club will hold a news conference this afternoon to discuss Gibbs' decision. It looks like he may remain with the organization in some type of consulting role, but I wouldn't expect it to be a major commitment.
Gibbs is already a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame after leading the Redskins to three Super Bowls during his first 12-year stint with the team.
I expect the Redskins to begin the search for a head coach immediately. Assistant head coach-defense Gregg Williams was once considered the head coach in waiting, but I think owner Daniel Snyder will expand the search. I think Williams will definitely have the players' support, but Snyder loves the flashy hire.
He would definitely be willing to spend the $8 million or so it would take to lure Bill Cowher out of his coaching sabbatical. I'm just not sure Cowher would want to work for a heavy-handed owner such as Snyder.
I do think the Redskins have the advantage over the Ravens in the Cowher sweepstakes. You'd also have to think assistant head coach-offense Al Saunders would at least be interviewed for the position, although he would be a long shot.
Cowboys assistant head coach Tony Sparano, who has already interviewed for three openings, was a Redskins assistant at one point. And Titans defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was the runner-up to Mike Nolan for the 49ers job and he deserves a shot somewhere. You also have to think about former Redskin Russ Grimm, who is currently the assistant head coach-offensive line with the Cardinals.
But first order of business is to say goodbye to a true legend.
Gibbs' return to the Redskins didn't go smoothly, but it ended with a flourish. He deserved to go out on his own terms. The man who used to sleep on a cot in his office is walking away again.
And this time I think it's for good.
