NFL Quick Hits (Jan. 4): The Coaching Cycle Has Begun

Wes Welker Reportedly Out For Playoffs

Welker sustained a knee injury in the first quarter of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans, and according to several sources, he has torn both his ACL and MCL ligaments.

Welker's absence will hurt the Patriots fluidity on offense, although rookie receiver Julian Edelman displayed the ability to step up with 10 catches for 103 yards in Week 17.

Look for Welker to have a difficult time making it back in time for the start of the 2010 season, which should force Edelman into the slot until he returns.

Jim Zorn Fired, Redskins Pursuing Mike Shanahan

Zorn being fired wasn't a surprise, and neither is Washington chasing after Shanahan. Reports have Shanahan on a plane with owner Daniel Synder and GM Bruce Allen, although they cannot be confirmed.

Regardless, Shanahan is said to not be overly interested in the Buffalo Bills head coaching position, and has his sights on taking over the post in Washington.

Bill Cowher May Not Coach in 2010

With several teams retaining their head coaches and other openings not appearing attractive to Cowher, the CBS analyst is not expected to rush back into coaching.

It's quite clear that Cowher is willing to take his time and be careful as to where he continues his coaching career, so don't bank on him returning before 2011.

Chad Ochocinco Having Issues With Knee

Ochocinco is reportedly unable to fully extend his knee, which he injured against the New York Jets in Week 17.

Ochocinco claimed that the injury was caused by the horrible field conditions, and was scheduled for an MRI on Monday. Regardless of numerous reports on the injury, few in Cincinnati regard this as a serious injury, and No. 85 is fully expected to start at home against the Jets next week.

Jaguars Expected to Retain Jack Del Rio

Early reports suggest that Jacksonville "quietly" retained Del Rio and his coaching staff, despite the Jaguars dropping their final four games and finishing at an average 7-9 on the season.

This doesn't guarantee that Del Rio stays on for 2010, but the extensions have apparently been signed, keeping Del Rio and his staff in Jacksonville until we're told otherwise.

Buffalo Bills Unload Entire Coaching Staff

After firing Dick Jauron earlier in the season, Bills management finished the job by ridding the team of Jauron's entire coaching staff, including recent interim coach, Perry Fewell.

Fewell wasn't terrible in a little less than half a season as the head coach, and is expected to even still interview for the top position.

However, the firing of the entire staff gives the Bills flexibility, and allows them to pursue whoever they want, while also giving Fewell some more consideration.

Tom Cable Likely to be Fired

The 2009 season was full of upsets for the Oakland Raiders, as Tom Cable did a good coaching job against supposedly superior opponents, but watched as his team struggled against talent on their level.

Regardless of the minimal success, Al Davis is expected to let Cable go, which will undoubtedly ignite "Gruden to Oakland" rumors, raising speculation that former coach Jon Gruden could make a return.

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