Only a couple of weeks ago we heard the news that Philbin was being retained. In the fallout from the announcement we considered the reasons for and ramifications of that decision. Part of the justification for the move was that, aside from Harbaugh (and maybe Ryan), there were no definite, solid Head Coach acquisitions to be had and it would at least be better to let Philbin run more one more year rather than risk a downgrade with an uncertain prospect.

In addition to that, we've all been pondering what might happen with Coyle and who might be a better option as a replacement.

Recently, though, there's been some developments which shake things up.

Despite the apparent lack of available coaching talent the Broncos just let their HC go. That might prove to have been a mistake but either way they weren't afraid, apparently, to risk a down-grade (or they see the scenario rather differently). Of course, that also means that John Fox is now available as a new HC. In addition to Fox, though, Ryan's move to Buffalo is stirring up news that the Bills DC might also be available soon, and so that's another prospect arriving on the scene.

We've all been wondering why no move has been made on Coyle. The truth is, we don't know yet. However, these changes to the prospects situation might lead one to wonder if some serious reconsideration might not be a good idea. As with their in-game adjustments the Dolphins/Philbin seem slow/reluctant to make any moves. It's rather frustrating. Of course, one could argue that's it's all just prudence and waiting to see what happens, and in that regard, seeing the massive change to the available coaching scenario, maybe waiting wasn't/isn't a bad move. Who knows who else might be come available as the playoffs finish off. Still, even if waiting is the name of the game, and even if the final decisions haven't all been made, some early movement to firm up the present situation might not be a bad idea - i.e. not happy with Coyle? Make that plain, let him go, and then move on (and let him move on) from there. Or perhaps tipping one's hand/need to early might add unnecessary competition (unlikely).

Either way, there are now coaches available which will bring into question any further stagnancy from Ross and/or Philbin through this off-season. Patience or continuity in the face of uninspiring options is one thing, but failing to strike while the iron is hot is something else.

If Philbin is going to be the guy, one would hope he'd take this chance to upgrade at DC. Then again, one would hope that Ross, despite his words, might not now at least consider looking at Fox, especially with some insight from his new VP, and see if there's not a really good opportunity here that shouldn't be missed - and doing ti early to give a new HC a chance to grab the best staff available.

Or does anyone think that there are better options yet to show up, or that even with the new coaches available none of them are the right fit?

 

Indeed. Although if Tannenbaum isn't a 'yes man' maybe he'd give consideration of this and have a word in Ross' ear. Maybe having someone beside him will give him the courage he needs to do what needs to be done. One would assume a real estate mogul wouldn't have an issue of being a bit cut throat.