Indianapolis Colts: Former Hard Hitter Jerry Gray Deserves Shot as Head Coach

Former hard-nosed cornerback Jerry Gray may not be the best fit to groom quarterback-of-the-future Andrew Luck with the Indianapolis Colts, but he certainly deserves consideration.

On Wednesday, it was reported that Gray was being considered for the Colts' head coaching gig.

Some believe that candidates Rob Chudzinski or Steve Spagnuolo deserve the job, as offensive and defensive minds, respectively.

But, while Gray doesn't have head coaching experience, he's proven a lot as an assistant coach throughout the years.

From 2001 to 2004, Gray helped developed one of the best defenses in the league with the Buffalo Bills, and his work with the Washington Redskins as defensive backs coach from 2006 to 2009 can't be ignored. He preaches the same style of defense that made him a four-time Pro Bowler with the Los Angeles Rams from 1986 to 1989.

While grooming Luck is certainly important, it's also notable that the Colts' defense in 2011 was simply deplorable. It was expected for the offense to take a dip minus Peyton Manning, but the defense gave up 26.9 points per game, giving up 62 points to Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints in Week 7. The pass defense had a league-worst eight interceptions.

In that sense, you certainly couldn't blame the Colts for going defense. Gray has earned the right to be given the chance as a head coach in the NFL in my opinion. I also think he would surprise as a head coach. I don't expect him to be hired over someone like Spagnuolo on defense, but he is a viable candidate.

The Colts' defense needs a swift kick in the rear, and Gray would provide that in Indy.