Pittsburgh Steelers Coach Bill Cowher Has Plenty of Choices in 2008

Even though Pittsburgh Steelers Coach Bill Cowher retired after the 2006 season, most around the NFL believe he will return to coaching once his contract expires after 2007.

If he does return, chances are he's going to have a good selection of teams to choose from. But, none of them are the perfect situation.

That's why I took a look at the NFL and compiled a list of possible job openings in 2008:

Arizona Cardinals -

Reasons he would end up here: The Cardinals would be a good place for him to solidify his Hall of Fame credentials. They have one winning season since 1998 and are in desperate need of a coach to turn that losing streak around. They already have a solid core of young stars but nobody who can lead them. They just signed Ken Whisenhunt this season, but they've fired head coaches in the past.

Reasons he wouldn't end up here: Cowher is loyal to his former assistants and I don't think he would take the job if it meant Whisenhunt got fired.

My belief: Definitely a long shot.

Washington Redskins -

Reasons he would end up here: Joe Gibbs has failed to get the team in the playoffs his first two seasons back and, if that continues in 2007, he'll likely be asked to resign. Dan Snyder will want a coach to turn things around quickly and isn't afraid to spend the money to get Cowher.

Reasons he wouldn't end up here: Snyder is one of the worst owners in football in terms of running a team. He likes to spend money on free agents who just don't fit and keeps his coaches on a very short leash. I can't see this being a good marriage.

My belief: My gut tells me no. But a large sum of money could change that.

Green Bay Packers -

Reasons he would end up here: Title town USA has missed the playoffs two seasons straight. If the drought continues into a third year, GM Ted Thompson will feel some pressure to get things turned around. Cowher would like the family friendly Green Bay atmosphere and a fan base that rivals what the Steelers had.