The End Begins: Sherman Sent Packing » Brats & Beer

January 2, 2006
posted under: coaching carousel, Mike Sherman, Packers, Ted Thompson

Green Bay general manager Ted Thompson made the announcement today that Mike Sherman would not be returning as head coach of the Packers. Repeating the mantra that his decision was not based on Green Bay’s 4-12 record but rather his feeling that the team needs to go in a different direction, Thompson said he arrived at the decision a few days before Sherman led Green Bay to a 23-17 victory over the Seattle Seahawks on New Year’s Day. Thompson didn’t seem too concerned when asked during the press conference if the Packers would have to move quickly to hire a coach given the number of vacancies in the NFL, perhaps a telling moment indicating that he has his eye on an assistant coach (Jim Bates) or someone from the college ranks (such as Jim Ferentz from Iowa).

Black Monday across the league has also seen the firing of Mike Martz in St. Louis and Dom Capers in Houston, adding to the list that started with Steve Mariucci, fired from Detroit during the season, and Mike Tice, who was released from his duties in Minnesota last night. I’m really hoping that we don’t start hearing any of those names bandied about as potential candidates.