Like you, I think we need a new Defensive Coordinator. We're going to be adding a lot of new starters and backups to that side of the ball. I'm hoping that Sean is talking a good hard look at the ENTIRE defense from both a player and coaching standpoint.
I'm sure he can see with the talent that will carry over to next year, what scheme is going to fit best with the least amount of new talent needed to put our defense into the top half of the NFL next year. With all that change, I wish I could be a fly on the wall right now and hear what he's thinking.
Is he thinking it is a lack of talent? Is he thinking..."with all this change, should I go out and look for a new D coordinator since so much needs to change??" With those thoughts, Payton is going to look for someone that he can work with. Gibbs fit that mold and I think that is what he wants more than anything else....someone he can trust and work along side of. I don't see Denver's guy being "that" guy. He had a wealth of talent and considering what they had...they stunk! They should have been a top 10 defense and were NOWHERE close. That too me is not good coaching. Not to come to Gibbs defense, but were horrible and our talent matched that. One above average LB, one good corner, two quality DE's that got no pressure all year, and the rest is made up of castoffs and average at best players (Shanle, Simmoneau, David, KK, etc.).
I would look for someone in his past that he's worked with to the majority of the pool of talent he looks to acquire....if he goes this route. I'm speaking mainly on the coaching end. Someone who has a knack for turning things around, the players rally around, will stick by Payton's side and most of all....follow Payton's thinking or be in sync with his way of coaching. That shoud give us a good idea of who he would target. And honestly, for the life of me....I can't think of anyone that fits that mold aside from Gibbs at the moment. If anyone else can, please chime in and voice your opinion. I think either of the Ryan's would be awesome, but could they work with Payton? Are they "his" type of coaches? Your thoughts?