The Redskins’ coaching position will be attractive for a variety of reasons — the opportunity to work with quarterback Robert Griffin III, an owner who will be active in free agency, and, of course, the salary.
An established coach would bring a proven track record but, in some regard, arrive as damaged goods; a younger assistant doesn’t excite the fan base, but has the opportunity to grow with his team.
Some of the potential candidates include:
• Bill Cowher, former Pittsburgh Steelers coach: Out of coaching for seven seasons and now a television analyst, Cowher would be a hire players would immediately respect.
• Ken Whisenhunt, San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator: The one-time Redskins running back led the Arizona Cardinals to the Super Bowl after the 2008 season.
• Jay Gruden, Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator: Lauded for his work with Andy Dalton, the brother of former Super Bowl winner Jon Gruden could be ready for his first head coaching opportunity.
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• Raheem Morris, Redskins defensive backs coach: The in-house hire would be a long shot, but the players’ coach has a relationship with GM Bruce Allen dating to their time in Tampa Bay.
• Art Briles, Baylor coach: The connection to Griffin makes Briles a natural candidate, though that relationship could harm many others within the team.
Other possibilities: Former Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith, San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Greg Roman, Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell, former Redskins offensive lineman and assistant coach Russ Grimm, Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, Stanford coach David Shaw.
• Zac Boyer can be reached at zboyer@washingtontimes.com.
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