Don’t rule out Tucker as long-term answer for Jaguars
Published: November 29th, 2011 | Tags: Mel Tucker, Brian Billick, Brian Schottenheimer, Jack Del Rio, Jacksonville Jaguars, Jason La Canfora, Jim Mora, Wayne Weaver
Before the ink had even dried on Jack Del Rio’s exit papers, the speculation on who would replace him in Jacksonville already was spinning.
The list starts with interim coach Mel Tucker, whom current Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver promised would have a chance to interview for the full-time job after the season. NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora warned not to rule Tucker out of the running, particularly if the Jaguars finish well, calling him a “serious candidate.”
Weaver promised an extensive search, one that would include experienced coaches (read: Super Bowl pedigree) and up-and-comers. But one such coach already has taken himself out of the running.
“They’re looking for young and cheap, and I’m neither,” former Ravens coach Brian Billick, believed to be a candidate, told NFL Network on Tuesday.
As for other potential candidates, La Canfora throws out former Falcons and Seahawks coach Jim Mora as an experienced option, and current Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer (who has worked with a young QB in Mark Sanchez) as a coach looking for a head-coaching gig.