While not a surprise by any stretch, the Carolina Panthers today made it official that they were not going tor enew the contract of Head Coach John Fox. In a statement released by the team, Owner Jerry Richardson thanked Fox for his time, efforts and success while in Charlotte:
"I told John today that I appreciate everything he has done for us over the last nine years, but as happens in this business, it is time for both sides to move in different directions. While we haven't accomplished all of the goals we set as an organization when we signed him in 2002, we have certainly had our share of high moments - the Super Bowl, two NFC Championship games, and a division title in 2008. We wish John and his family the best going forward."
The quote above says all that is needed for why the Broncos should at least kick the tires on Fox as their next Head Coach. In 8 seasons at the helm, Fox won a ton of football games and had the Panthers just minutes from winning the Super Bowl with Jake Delhomme at quarterback. He did it all while not always getting a helping hand from the front office.
To his credit, friend to MHR - and me personally, Andrew Mason wrote at length about Fox HERE. Mason, who covered the Broncos for several years on the Broncos website, did the same in Carolina for 2 seasons after leaving the team. If anyone knows the Panthers - and Broncos for that matter - it is Mason.
Again, this post is not a campaign for Fox, just getting names out there of guys that have had success and will be available in some capacity. While it is assumed that Fox will want a head gig somewhere - Cleveland also comes to mind - he was successful as the DC for the Giants before leaving for Carolina. That could be an option as well.