It appears a four-game losing streak to end the 2009 season will not end Jack Del Rio’s coaching career in Jacksonville.
Del Rio was not expected to lose his job, partly because of financial reasons. Owner Wayne Weaver owes Del Rio more than $15 million over the next three seasons. Michael C. Wright of the Florida Times-Union also reports that Weaver quietly extended the contracts of Del Rio’s assistants during the season.
The report from Fox’s Jay Glazer that there are “strong indications” the Jaguars are up for sale is another factor that could delay any major changes.
Del Rio met with the press on Black Monday, which is always a good sign for a coach. Perhaps knowing his precarious status, Del Rio upped the ante for his team.
“We’re a young team that fought its way into [playoff] contention. Another strong offseason and we ought to knock the door down,” Del Rio said.
If not, he’s in trouble. One columnist said Del Rio should be on “possibly the hottest seat of any NFL head coach.” Del Rio’s defense has collapsed for two years running. They gave up 380 points in 2009, the most since their expansion season.
The Jaguars coach, now 57-55 for his career, has lasted seven seasons. He knows he can’t survive another finish like this one.