Let’s Play G.M. (Part 1)

As this season limps to a close, I’m ready to start debating the major changes that the Bengals are facing. We all have opinions, and we would all love to steal Mike Brown’s title of G.M. (And honestly, could we do worse than him?) So let’s have a little fun and play G.M.

Your first assignment as G.M. is, of course, to address the need at head coach. He sets the tone for the team. Here are some options to consider.

1) Retain Marvin Lewis. He is the only squirrel to find a nut in the minefield of Mike Brown’s ownership. He is not perfect by any means, but he has only had three losing seasons in eight years here. Think you couldn’t do worse? I’ve got two words for you: Dave Shula.

2) Promote Mike Zimmer. He’s tough. He’s smart. He doesn’t take **** from any player. There is a lot to love about all of that. This team needs discipline, and he would bring it. The fan base likes him.

3) Pursue a former head coach. Bill Cowher. Brian Billick. Jon Gruden. Tony Dungy. (I doubt he will un-retire though.) All of these guys know how to win. They will demand a lot of control, probably more than Mike Brown will concede. If you lean this way, which one tops your list? What do you offer to get him to take the job?

4) Go get a coordinator from another team. Lots of names could fill out this list: Hue Jackson (OC-Raiders), Ron Rivera (DC-Chargers), Brian Schottenheimer (OC-Jets), Perry Fewell (DC-Giants), Mike Mularkey (OC-Falcons), ya-da ya-da. Who is your man? How do you sell him to the fan base? The Bengals don’t exactly have the best record with first-time head coaches.

5) Go get a college head coach. Jim Harbaugh probably heads this list. Can you turn a college guy as your new NFL head coach into ticket sales?

Personally, I want a someone who has won as a head coach before, but I don’t think any of them will put up with Mike Brown. After they all laugh at my offers, I call Mike Zimmer. He knows what he is getting into with this franchise. He will bring in new coaches with his hard-nosed approach, which I love. This team needs discipline right now, and he will bring the hammer.

OK, your turn in the G.M. chair. Let’s hear what you would do.