Former Tennessee Titans coach Jeff Fisher, the biggest prize in this off-season's coaching derby, is expected to decide Wednesday which team he will coach next season.
Having narrowed his choices down to the Miami Dolphins and the St. Louis Rams, speculation is rampant that Fisher will pick the Dolphins, ending weeks of jockeying for the man who led the Titans to their first (and only) Super Bowl berth.
NFL.com reported Wednesday afternoon that Fisher will choose the Dolphins, thanks in no small part to owner Stephen Ross' willingness to outbid the Rams for his services. According to NFL.com's sources, Fisher's deal is in the neighborhood of $7 million per year. Fisher has not yet notified either team of his decision.
Also of note: Fisher will be given the title of executive vice president, placing him above general manager Jeff Ireland in the Dolphins' chain of command.
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The Rams had been thought to be the front-runner for Fisher, both because of their more settled quarterback situation and Fisher's ties to the team. His agent, Marvin Demoff, is the father of Rams COO Kevin Demoff.
Earlier this week, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reported the Rams could introduce Fisher as their new coach within a matter of days. However, more recent reports suggest Fisher might not be headed to St. Louis after all.
The Associated Press learned Tuesday night that the Rams have obtained permission to interview Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator (and former University of Miami offensive coordinator) Rob Chudzinski for their head coaching job.
Could this be a signal that St. Louis is moving on from Fisher? Or are they merely covering their bases just in case Fisher decides not to join the Rams?
The Dolphins have a lot on the line with regards to Fisher. If he signs with the Rams, Miami will likely have to settle for a second choice that will not seem nearly as exciting as Fisher. Miami has interviewed a number of assistant coaches and coordinators, but none who have NFL head coaching experience, as Fisher does.
Unless the team follows through on their recently reported interest in Oregon Ducks coach Chip Kelly, they will be left with an unknown quantity at head coach, whose hiring will not lead to a boost in ticket sales.
That is not to say the Dolphins can't achieve their long-term goals with any of these other coaching candidates. However, if they want to get fans excited with their new head coach, they will have a hard time if Fisher changes his mind.
