My gut feeling says Joe Gibbs is leaning towards not coaching the Redskins next season.
Then again, everything seems in play.
Redskins owner Dan Snyder and Gibbs began “hot and heavy” talks last night that the latter indicated could last several days. Gibbs refused to commit to even past statements of intending to finish his five-year deal in 2008. It would have been so easy for Gibbs to defuse speculation, but he didn’t in the least. That sounds like a man weighing his options.
The key tip-off from the 31-minute press conference was Gibbs saying he went home to North Carolina on Sunday night to see his family. Gibbs said he wanted to see the grandkids, but it was also a chance to meet family members that have long wanted him to retire. Indeed, the family was reluctant for Gibbs to return in 2004.
The family meeting points to Gibbs leaving, but it doesn’t mean he will. Coach Norv Turner was ready to forgo his final year after making the playoffs in 1999, but Snyder talked him into staying.
Does this all sound uncertain? Yes, because it is.
Snyder wants Gibbs to stay … forever. If this is about money, Snyder will write the check. If it’s about power, Snyder will offer it.
But it appears to involve a lot of things like Gibbs’ staff. A small group watched the press conference from a back office with perplexed looks, according to a source in the room. Assistants were wondering what Gibbs is up to and they’re closer to him than anyone.
The staff only has one year left on their contracts. Gibbs is likely working on an extension — a safety net — for a crew that has spent many years with him. Gibbs’ first tenure ended with defensive coordinator Richie Petitbon succeeding him for a year with the staff largely staying. Gibbs repaid his staff’s loyalty then. Maybe he’s doing it again.
Perhaps Gibbs is making a pre-emptive move to keep assistant head coach/defense Gregg Williams from taking another job. Williams has long been the heir apparent, but maybe he’s tiring of waiting. His name is popping up elsewhere. Gibbs might move to solely team president to keep Williams.
Gibbs returned to right a franchise that completely collapsed during his 11-year absence. He’s done so with two playoff seasons in three years. Gibbs hasn’t added a fourth Super Bowl trophy, but he never promised one. Gibbs simply wanted to get the team back in the championship race and can leave saying mission accomplished.
Now factor his age, 67, and health concerns. Gibbs never greatly reduced his work schedule from the first tenure that was nonstop. He knows the grind is wearing on him.
Finally, consider Sean Taylor’s death. It was another epiphany for Gibbs to re-examine his life. Maybe he sees the final years doing things more important than football.
The next few days will be very interesting.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].
