Coaching Rumors: Harbaugh, Coughlin, Gase
There has been plenty of action since our first round of coaching rumors this morning, with five teams – the 49ers, Raiders, Jets, Falcons, and Bears – now in the market for new head coaches. We’ve had enough news and rumors since then to warrant another round-up of the latest coaching-related updates, so let’s dive in….
- Although an agreement appears to be in place between Jim Harbaugh and the University of Michigan, NFL teams like the Bears, Jets, and Raiders continue to make overtures to try to change his mind, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.com (via Twitter). Mike Freeman of Bleacher Report confirms (via Twitter) that the Raiders are still making a push to try to land Harbaugh, even if it looks like a long shot at this point.
- Giants head coach Tom Coughlin has been told he’ll be back to coach the team in 2015, but has a meeting scheduled for this afternoon with co-owner John Mara to discuss possible changes to the coaching staff, writes Dan Graziano of ESPN.com.
- The Falcons and 49ers have already requested permission to speak to Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase, reports Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (Twitter links). Coaches who currently work for playoff teams with first-round byes are allowed to interview for jobs this week, so Gase is one coordinator whose name figures to surface frequently in the next few days.
- In addition to Gase, the Falcons may also look to talk to Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn and Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, tweets D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
- Jason La Canfora of CBSSports.com has several tidbits for us, tweeting that Jack Del Rio could emerge as a coaching candidate for the Raiders, the Falcons will contact Rex Ryan, and Mike Shanahan could have interest in the Bears‘ job.
- Former 49ers head coach Mike Singletary, who currently serves as an advisor to NFL executive Troy Vincent, would have interest in interviewing for the Bears‘ head coaching job, a source tells Adam Caplan of ESPN.com (Twitter link).
La Canfora’s Latest: Texans, Browns, Harbaugh
Let’s check out the latest from CBS Sports scribe Jason La Canfora:
- The Texans are expected to make a change at general manager during the offseason, with current GM Rick Smith shifting into a new role that doesn’t involve football operations. Head coach Bill O’Brien will have significant input on who is hired to fill the position, and sources tell La Canfora that the club already has several candidates in mind. Patriots executive Nick Caserio would likely be O’Brien’s top choice, as the two worked together in New England. Other external options include the Eagles’ Tom Gamble and the Pats’ Jon Robinson, while internal candidates could include scouting director Mike Maccagnan and director of pro personnel Brian Gaine. Texans vice chariman Cal McNair has denied La Canfora’s report, tweets John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.
- Meanwhile, changes could also be coming in Buffalo and Tennessee, writes La Canfora. Bills GM Doug Whaley doesn’t have a great relationship with head coach Doug Marrone, and given that the current Buffalo front office was responsible for the selection of E.J. Manuel, it wouldn’t be a shock to see the club completely overhaul its management team. Meanwhile, the Titans could opt to fire general manager Ruston Webster, and replace him with executive Lake Dawson.
- The Browns are growing increasingly frustrated with both Josh Gordon and Johnny Manziel, sources tell La Canfora. Gordon, who was suspended for today’s game after missing a walkthrough on Saturday, will file a grievance against the team in order to maintain his free agent status after 2015. But Cleveland officials say Gordon “has to go,” although La Canfora says it’s unclear whether owner Jimmy Haslam is willing to trade the talented wideout. For his part, Manziel was also absent yesterday, and team security was forced to go to his house to retrieve him. The rookie quarterback reportedly threw a team party Friday night (which led to several Browns being late on Saturday), the latest questionable decision by a player who recently vowed to take the game more seriously.
- Five clubs — the Raiders, Jets, 49ers, Falcons, and Bears — are expected to make coaching changes in the coming days. The Raiders still have their eye on Jim Harbaugh, but if he takes the Michigan job as expected, the club could bring in Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio. And while the 49ers are expected to look at some of the younger offensive coaches during their search, the Jets, Falcons, and Bears are looking to hire an established head coach, per La Canfora. Rex Ryan is an option in Atlanta, though if the Falcons lose today and miss the playoffs, general manger Thomas Dimitroff could be axed there. In Chicago, the club could look to reunite Mike Shanahan with Jay Cutler.
- The Raiders will indeed attempt to make their pitch to Harbaugh, and would even engage in trade talks with the 49ers if possible. La Canfora notes (via Twitter) that NFL executives won’t believe Harbaugh has a deal with Michigan until it’s officially signed.
- Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin is a name to watch regarding head-coaching vacancies. La Canfora says sources have compared Autin’s rise to that of Mike Tomlin, who went from an unknown position coach to leading the Steelers in rapid time. Austin is expected to garner several interviews, including one with the Falcons.
AFC West Notes: Alex Smith, Manning, Raiders
Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith is expected to be sidelined for approximately six weeks due to a lacerated spleen, the team announced today. The good news is that in addition to not requiring surgery, Smith won’t suffer any long-term effects due to the injury. However, if the Chiefs make the playoffs (they’ll need to win on Sunday, and hope both the Ravens and Texans lose), Smith won’t be healthy enough to play until the Super Bowl, if at all. Backup QB Chase Daniel will take over the signal-calling reins in the meantime; as Jason Fitzgerald of Over the Cap notes (Twitter link), Daniel and Smith have similar cap figures this season, with Daniel counting $3.4MM to Smith’s $4.6MM. Daniel, 28, signed a three-year, $10MM deal with Kansas City prior to the 2013 season. Here’s more from the AFC West:
- Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning said that he wants to return in 2015 and, to the surprise of no one, coach John Fox said that he wants Manning back too, as Jeff Legwold of ESPN.com tweets. “I would say…maybe the top [quarterback] of all time, I’d say there’s a pretty good likelihood [that we want him to return],” Fox said.
- With Manning in the fold for 2015, Broncos backup Brock Osweiler will probably see his four-year deal expire after next season without getting an opportunity to play a whole lot, writes Mike Klis of The Denver Post. “When I was drafted here, I knew I was brought in to sit on the bench and learn from one of the greatest quarterbacks to have ever played this game,” Osweiler said. “I also knew that his contract was one year longer than mine. We understood that.”
- Raiders center Stefen Wisniewski, an impending free agent, says the club has made him a few contract offers, but “nothing he was looking for,” according to Josh Dubnow of the Associated Press (via Twitter). The fourth-year offensive lineman is counting just $1.315MM against the cap this season, the final year of his rookie deal. Wisniewski isn’t a star, but he’s a solid player, rating as the 15th-best center in the league per Pro Football Focus (subscription required), so it’s a little surprising that Oakland, who has the most cap 2015 cap space ($51MM)+ of any team, hasn’t made a more serious effort to retain him.
Zach Links contributed to this post.
AFC South Notes: Texans, Johnson, Shorts
The Texans have reportedly been pushing for superstar wide receiver Andre Johnson to take a pay cut. Johnson, who is set to make $21.5MM over the next two seasons, was supposedly open to the idea, according to his uncle, Andre Melton.
However, Johnson refuted the idea that he would be willing to take a pay cut to stay with the team, reports Tania Ganguli of ESPN (via Twitter).
“I don’t know where that story came from,” said Johnson. “I didn’t make that statement.”
The receiver said he and his uncle never discussed his willingness to accept a pay cut, according to Ganguli (via Twitter).
Today’s look at the AFC South..
- Legend has it that before Peyton Manning signed with the Broncos in March 2012, he told Johnson that he wanted to be a member of the Texans. Johnson wouldn’t confirm the story to Brian T. Smith of the Houston Chronicle, but he did imply that it had some merit. “I’ve heard that he wanted to come play here,” Johnson said. “But I never really got the (full story), cause I’ve heard so many different things from different people. So the truth never really came out.” He added: “It wasn’t directly from him. It was from someone close to him.”
- If Johnson is willing to take a pay cut, the Texans star should wait for a resolution with Larry Fitzgerald‘s situation before doing anything, opines Joel Corry of CBSSports.com (on Twitter).
- Cecil Shorts is hopeful he’ll be with the Jaguars in 2015 but realizes this weekend’s season finale could be his last game with the franchise, writes Hays Carlyon of The Florida-Times Union. “It’s been hard for me this season,” Shorts said. “For me, I had to really get into my faith. I couldn’t lean on my own understanding. I didn’t know why things were happening. I didn’t know why I kept getting hurt. So, I had to really get into my Bible, really pray and relax. I had to have peace, so I wouldn’t keep stressing about certain things. I had to stop pressing, relax and play.” The wide receiver has been a leader in the Jacksonville locker room, but injuries have held him back in recent years.
- Suspended Jaguars wide receiver Justin Blackmon sold his Jacksonville area house, as Ryan O’Halloran of The Florida Times-Union writes, which could be a sign that he’s not planning on a future with the team. It’s not known when Blackmon might be eligible for reinstatement but he remains under contract with the Jaguars.
Peyton Manning Expects To Play In 2015
We’ve heard plenty of rumblings suggesting that Peyton Manning will continue playing next season, and the future Hall of Fame quarterback confirmed as much this afternoon. Speaking at his press conference, Manning said he has every intention of playing in 2015 (via Mike Klis of The Denver Post).
“I certainly plan on being back if the Broncos will have me. At this point I’m thinking about Oakland. I know this is the time when there are conversations about what coaches are going to return. For some reason I guess I get to fall into that category because maybe I’m closer to the same age as some of the coaches. But I have no plans along those lines. I’m enjoying playing and looking forward to Sunday’s game and the game to follow that.”
As Klis points out, the speculation regarding the quarterback’s future is justified. He has two years remaining on the five-year, $96MM contract he signed in 2012, but the next two years aren’t guaranteed. Of course, the non-guaranteed contract would only be important if the Broncos didn’t intend of having Manning back, which doesn’t appear to be the case.
The 38-year-old continues to produce at a high level despite his age. He currently ranks in the top five for most of the major quarterback stats, and he earned his 14th Pro Bowl selection yesterday. However, Pro Football Focus’ advanced metrics (subscription required) suggests that the quarterback is starting to decline. He ranks 13th among qualified quarterbacks, the first time since 2007 that he hasn’t ranked in the top five (excluding the 2011 season).
While Manning is confident he’ll be back, he could return without a couple of key teammates. Wide receiver Demaryius Thomas and tight end Julius Thomas are both set to be free agents, but the organization has continually proven that they’ll do whatever it takes to stay competitive while Manning’s on their team.
Workout Updates: Tuesday
We’ll keep track of today’s workouts here..
- Cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke and former 49ers and Chiefs wide receiver Kyle Williams auditioned for the Titans, according to Adam Caplan of ESPN.com (on Twitter).
- Former Rams wide receiver Austin Pettis worked out for the 49ers on Monday, according to Caplan (via Twitter).
- Defensive end Kenny Horsley auditioned for the 49ers, according to Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post (on Twitter).
- The Titans worked out former rugby star Carlin Isles, quarterback Seth Lobato, Van Dyke, and Williams, according to Wilson (on Twitter). Ri’Shard Anderson was a part of the same workout and wound up getting signed to the taxi squad.
- Washington worked out nose tackle Junior Aumavae, wide receivers Jamar Howard, Kemonte Bateman, Darius Reynolds, and Braylon Bell, quarterbacks Tajh Boyd, and Dominique Davis, defensive tackles John Drew, Lakendrick Ross, and Michael Brooks, and fullback Jordan Campbell, Wilson tweets. Washington also hosted linebacker James Gayle for a visit (link).
- The Jaguars worked out defensive end Shawn Lemon and safety Ian Wild, according to Wilson (on Twitter).
- The Broncos worked out punter Brock Miller, according to Wilson (on Twitter).
- The Jets worked out wide receiver Joe Morgan, quarterback Bryn Renner, ex-CFL quarterback Eric Ward, wideout Greg Childs, quarterback Dominique Davis, linebacker Brandon Denmark, former Lions cornerback Aaron Hester, Wilson tweets.
West Notes: Woodson, Chiefs, 49ers
Larry Fitzgerald was considered to be a candidate to be cut this offseason, but earlier today we learned that the Cardinals will not be releasing him outright. That doesn’t mean they won’t trade him, restructure his deal, or extend his contract, but the Cardinals won’t let another team have him for nothing. More out of the West divisions..
- Raiders cornerback Charles Woodson sounds like he wants to return next season, as Scott Bair of CSNBayArea.com writes. The 38-year-old says that he hopes to see the team’s secondary coaches back in Oakland next season. “We’ve got to see if the team wants me back,” Woodson said. “I think a part of it will be what happens coaching-wise. Marcus Robertson has been a big help to me this year, man. That’s one of the things that – depending on what happens with that guy, it would be hard to see me playing under another guy. I hope he’s back, because he’s done a tremendous job with myself, with the other guys in that room. Also, Joe Woods has done a tremendous job. Those guys we work with very closely.”
- Terez A. Paylor (Twitter links) doesn’t think the Chiefs are far from contending. With improvements to their offensive line, wide receivers, and a shoring up at inside linebacker, he feels that KC can compete in 2015.
- Paylor (on Twitter) wants to see the Chiefs make a run at Broncos guard Orlando Franklin in free agency. The 27-year-old offers size and a solid understanding of zone concepts. On top of that, signing him would weaken the rival Broncos.
- With all of the speculation over coach Jim Harbaugh‘s future, 49ers tight end Vernon Davis admits that there have been distractions in the locker room, writes Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com.
Workout Notes: Friday
Here is a list of the players working out with clubs, hoping to join a roster for the season’s home stretch:
- The Jaguars worked three players, including former second-round pick Arrelious Benn, according to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun (via Twitter). The team also worked out Tim McCornett and Chidera Uzo-Diribe.
- The Raiders worked out former Saints’ receiver Joe Morgan earlier this week, but have also looked at Vernon Kearney and Marvin McNutt, reports Wilson (via Twitter).
- The Dolphins tried out kicker Dustin Hopkins, reports Wilson (via Twitter)
- The Falcons have worked out Lavelle Westbrooks, according to Wilson (via Twitter).
- The Chiefs worked out Travis Chappalear, writes Wilson (via Twitter).
- The Vikings worked out two players, Jordan McCray and Greg Van Roten, reports Wilson (via Twitter).
- The Lions brought in Dejon Gomes for a workout, according to Wilson (via Twitter).
- The Steelers brought Ronald Patrick in for a visit, writes Wilson (via Twitter).
- Wilson doesn’t get to have all the fun, as Mike Klis of the Denver Post reports that the Broncos have worked out two defensive backs on Wednesday (via Twitter). They brought in Delvin Breaux and Jalil Carter, who played in the Canadian Football League.
Minor Moves: Thursday
We’ll round up Thursday’s minor moves from around the NFL, including practice squad signings and cuts, in this space, with the latest transactions added to the top of the list throughout the day:
- The Seahawks added former Dolphins tight end Gator Hoskins to the practice squad, according to the NFL’s personnel notice (via Brian McIntyre on Twitter). Safety Dion Bailey was released to make room.
- The 49ers are promoting nose tackle Mike Purcell to their 53-man roster for this Saturday’s game, head coach Jim Harbaugh told reporters today (Twitter link via Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com). The team had an opening on its roster after releasing defensive lineman Ray McDonald.
Earlier updates:
- The Ravens have moved on to their third long snapper of the season, signing Patrick Scales today to replace Kevin McDermott, who is headed to injured reserve with an elbow injury, according to the team. McDermott had been signed in October to replace Morgan Cox, who sustained a season-ending knee injury. Within the same release, the club also announces a change to its practice squad, with running back Tauren Poole replacing tight end Emmanuel Ogbuehi.
- The Broncos have filled up their practice squad once again by signing offensive lineman Demarcus Love to take the 10th and final opening, tweets Jeff Legwold of ESPN.com.
AFC West Notes: Carr, Sparano, Broncos
Chargers head coach Mike McCoy has no concerns about Philip Rivers heading into this week’s contest against the 49ers, writes Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego. “Philip had an outstanding day,” McCoy said. “A ball did not hit the ground in all the throws he made today. Philip was Philip, so he’ll be ready to roll.” The QB missed his first official practice in several years one day earlier, but all indications are he still start Saturday night against the 49ers. More out of the AFC West..
- There has been speculation for months about who will be the next coach of the Raiders but if he had it his way, rookie quarterback would like to have Tony Sparano stay in the position, writes Steve Corkran of the Bay Area News Group. “Yeah, we love him,” Carr said. “He’s our leader. Absolutely. We love him. Obviously, those decisions are going to happen, and we have no control in that. Those decisions will be made, and whoever is here is who we’ll play for.”
- Mike Klis of The Denver Post looked at the Broncos that could depart in free agency, including Demaryius Thomas and Julius Thomas. “I don’t want to leave,” said the 335-pound athlete lovingly referred to as Pot Roast. “I want to be here. But I’ve been in the position before, and I know how it works.” Defensive tackle Terrance Knighton is also set to hit the open market and while he’s not as integral as the two offensive superstars, he badly wants to stay in Denver.
- Bill Williamson of ESPN.com discussed the University of Michigan’s rumored offer to 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh and how it impacts the Raiders. Williamson feels that if Raiders owner Mark Davis really wants Harbaugh, he knows that he’ll have to pay big, so matching or exceeding the Wolverines’ offer is not out of the question.