With defensive coordinator Gregg Williams suspended indefinitely, the Rams suddenly don’t have a defensive coordinator. Head coach Jeff Fisher will meet with the media at 3:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, presumably to discuss the team’s plans.
Previously, the Rams had remained silent on the issue of Williams’ status, deferring to the league’s disciplinary procedure. It has been reported that Dave McGinnis or Chuck Cecil could be asked to replace Williams.
The question becomes whether Williams will remain employed by the Rams at all. Technically, his status will be reviewed at the end of the 2012 season, and the Commissioner at that time will decide whether to reinstate Williams. The decision will be based in part on whether and to what extent Williams cooperates with the NFL in “any further proceedings.”
From the league’s perspective, it’s a smart move. If banned for life, Williams would have no incentive to testify in any arbitration proceedings that may be pursued by players who eventually will be disciplined. Now, with his career hanging in the balance, Williams will show up for any and every hearing that may occur.
Williams also could be involved in other investigations regarding bounties or pay-for-performance programs maintained in other cities where he coached.
Still, for the Rams the right move probably would be to essentially annul his employment and move on with McGinnis or Cecil. Then, if he’s reinstated, he can try to get an NFL job in the future -- even though most owners surely will regard him as radioactive.