After two straight convincing wins, Panthers coach John Fox is off the hot seat for now.
Tom Sorensen of the Charlotte Observer reports that Fox, G.M. Marty Hurney, and Fox’s entire coaching staff will be “offered the opportunity” to return to the Panthers in 2010. Fox will not be offered a contract extension.
Fox is reportedly due $6 million in 2010, the final year of his current deal. Sorensen writes that a potential lockout after the 2010 season could be a factor in the decision to keep Fox.
The 7-8 Panthers face many big offseason questions, like at quarterback and what do do with Julius Peppers. (The most likely Peppers solution: waving goodbye.)
Left unsaid is whether Fox will definitely take the “opportunity” to return as a lame duck coach. With so much money due and no freedom to entertain job offers, we have to assume he will be back.