he rumor this week has been that Bill Cowher is leaning heavily towards returning to the NFL sidelines for 2010. The only problem -- as we're beginning to see -- is that there might not be a place for him.
The Dallas Cowboys were considered an option, but they've played their way back into the playoffs (and possibly a division title if they win on Sunday). The Carolina Panthers were thought to be the favorites, but John Fox got a vote of confidence on Monday, and he'll be back. Finally, the Chicago Bears were considered a compelling choice, but after their huge win on Monday night against the Minnesota Vikings, one would suspect that Lovie Smith is safe.
So who does that leave? We think that two of the four AFC South teams -- the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars -- might make a coaching change this offseason. Gary Kubiak and Jack Del Rio haven't been awful, but a change at the top might instill some excitement that could push either team over the hump of mediocrity.
But maybe there's a another surprise contender. Here's NFC West blogger Mike Sando, from Monday afternoon: