With the wealth of head coaching jobs available in the NFL, Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive coordinator Jay Gruden and defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer are two of the hottest prospects around. As teams hurriedly evaluate candidates, each day brings updates to Bengals fans concerned with facing the next season with not just one, but possibly two new coaches.
The Cleveland Browns appear to be most probable option for Mike Zimmer at this point. After meeting with Zimmer for a first interview this week, they evidently liked what he had to say and reportedly have asked him for another meeting this Friday. The Browns have indicated that they plan to make a decision sooner rather than later and will have their search for a new head coach finalized by Sunday night.
Meanwhile Jay Gruden is evaluating his options as he interviewed for the head coach position with the Arizona Cardinals today. The Cardinals are looking to replace Ken Whisenhunt, who was fired after six seasons. Gruden has also said that he may interview with the Philadelphia Eagles next week.
As both Zimmer and Gruden seem to have at least one foot out the door, the Cincinnati Bengals are likely considering where they will look to fill the spots left vacant if they do lose one, or both, coaches.
Hue Jackson, currently an assistant with the Bengals, seems a good prospect for the offensive coordinator position, though other team are reportedly considering him for openings as well. Jackson is the former head coach of the Oakland Raiders.
It is also worth noting that the Dallas Cowboys fired their defensive coordinator Rob Ryan on Thursday, and this experienced coach could be a possible candidate to take Zimmer’s spot. Ryan is highly respected and many feel the Cowboys lack of success in recent years is due to their offense, and veteran quarterback Tony Romo, rather than their defense.
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