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It took just 48 hours for the NFL offseason to heat up.
New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels was all but confirmed to become the next head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, but he opted to pull out of the position, as first reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Stunner: Patriots’ OC Josh McDaniels has decided NOT to accept Colts’ HC job and will remain with New England, sources told ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 7, 2018
“After agreeing to contract terms to become the Indianapolis Colts’ new head coach, New England Patriots assistant coach Josh McDaniels this evening informed us that he would not be joining our team,” The Colts, who went as far as to have an introductory press conference for McDaniels scheduled for Wednesday, said in an official statement. “Although we are surprised and disappointed, we will resume our head coaching search immediately and find the right fit to lead our team and organization on and off the field.”
That search will likely include current Chiefs special teams coordinator Dave Toub, especially given his ties to Colts general manager Chris Ballard, the Chiefs’ former director of football operations.
Dave Toub was a strong candidate in Indy. Colts now might fall back onto him. Stay tuned. They're regrouping because they were obviously caught by surprise.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 7, 2018
Toub, who has been with the Chiefs as special teams coordinator since 2013, has been a common head coach candidate the last few seasons, but he was never given an opportunity.
This situation could prove very different. Schefter also reported that the assistant coaching positions are already in place.
Former Cowboys’ asst HC/LB coach Matt Eberflus already has signed to become Colts’ defensive coordinator and former Illinois D-line coach Mike Phair has signed to become Indy’s D-line coach - and both will stay with Colts, whoever the HC is, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 7, 2018
Such a situation likely would rule out bigger name candidates, who would wait to pick their staff.
I predict Toub finally gets his shot, if he’s willing to accept the position.