The Eagles coaching search now becomes top priority and the primary focus with the season complete. Already, several names have been thrown around.
Duce Staley interviewed for the position on Friday. Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Doug Pederson was rumored to be a leading candidate for the position, though there are conflicting reports on that rumor. Pat Shurmur said after Sunday's game that he expects to sit down with the Eagles front office sometime soon to discuss the possibility of taking over the position as well.
And now, there are two more names to add in: Adam Gase and Sean Payton.
Gase, the Chicago Bears offensive coordinator will interview for the Eagles position next week along with expected vacancies in both Miami and Cleveland. The Browns fired coach Mike Pettine on Sunday night and the Dolphins are expected to look for a full-time replacement for Dan Campbell.
According to a report from Paul Domowitch of Philly.com, the Eagles are expected to pursue Payton, currently head coach of the New Orleans Saints, if he becomes available.
Gase has been the Bears offensive coordinator for only one season, but previously spent five with the Detroit Lions, one with the San Francisco 49ers and six with the Denver Broncos before going to Chicago. The Bears were 6-10 this season, but didn't have much of an offensive regime despite quarterback Jay Cutler having a career year.
Payton has been the head coach with the Saints since 2006, posted an 87-57 record and 6-4 postseason record that included a run to the Super Bowl title in 2009. Prior to coaching the Saints, Payton was an assistant head coach with the Dallas Cowboys from 2003 to 2005, the New York Giants offensive coordinator from 2000 to 2002 and the Eagles quarterback coach in 1997 and 1998.
Kevin Durso is managing editor for Eagledelphia. Follow him on Twitter @Kevin_Durso.
