The NFL’s bounty scandal discipline didn’t just affect the Saints. The Rams have lost defensive coordinator Gregg Williams for an “indefinite” period, and they’ll be forced to turn elsewhere for a coach to orchestrate schemes and playcalling on defense.
Rams coach Jeff Fisher held a brief press conference Wednesday afternoon to address Williams’ ban. Fisher confirmed that Williams will be “eligible for reinstatement when the [2012] season is over.”
Fisher stopped short of naming a new defensive coordinator, although that position is expected to go to either assistant head coach Dave McGinnis or defensive backs coach Chuck Cecil. McGinnis is considered the in-house favorite. Promoting Cecil might not go over well with the league.
Another possibility is a defensive coordinator-by-committee approach.
“We have a lot of things to sort out, as you can imagine,” Fisher said.
Fisher added that Williams was “shocked but remorseful” when he learned of his suspension, which will span at least one full football season. Fisher insisted the Rams had “no idea” of Williams’ program that encouraged the infliction of severe injuries on opponents.