- The Lions are going to introduce Jim Schwartz sometime shortly after noon ET today. Although Schwartz has already met with the media once this week, this press conference will be a lot different since he is now the head coach of the Lions. I will have full coverage of the press conference after I get out of class this afternoon.
- Now that the Lions have found a head coach, the next task is to assemble a coaching staff. Jim Schwartz will play the biggest role in putting together a staff, and I don't think that he will wait very long to do so. It is important to hire assistants quickly because some won't be available for very long and because there is a need to get a system in place. Although the draft isn't until April, the scouting of players has already begun, making it very important that a system and coaching staff is in place somewhat quickly. Once a coaching staff is assembled, the Lions can begin to focus on personnel.
- As Dave Birkett pointed out, Jim Schwartz isn't necessarily set on drafting a QB with the #1 overall pick. His history in scouting makes me think that the Lions are more likely to draft a lineman -- offensive or defensive -- since there is a better chance of finding a hidden gem of a QB in the later rounds.
- Tom Kowalski thinks Kansas City's hiring of Scott Pioli sped up the hiring process for the Lions, as they didn't want to risk losing out on Schwartz.
- Gregg Williams is the Saints' new defensive coordinator. There was some speculation that he would follow Jim Schwartz to Detroit, but Williams decided to go to New Orleans instead.
- Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier is reportedly the leading candidate for the Rams job. I would love to see him leave the division.
- Much to the dismay of Pete Carroll, USC quarterback Mark Sanchez is going to enter the NFL Draft.
- Florida's Percy Harvin is going pro, but linebacker Brandon Spikes is going to return to school.
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