Chiefs Name Crennel Head Coach

Added on Jan 09, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

The Kansas City Chiefs search for a new head coach didn’t last too long. Interim coach Romeo Crennel is now the man in charge after agreeing to terms on a reported three-year contract. CEO Clark Hunt and general manager Scott Pioli are scheduled to make an official announcement later today. Crennel went 2-1 following the firing of Todd Haley. His signature win was knocking off the unbeaten Packers in Week 15.

Pioli was expected to conduct a thorough search before naming a new coach, but elected instead to stay in house with someone familiar with the organization and players.

“Romeo’s vast experience and intelligence have helped him achieve success at the highest level. The way in which he creates accountability and respect amongst the team creates a very productive work environment and will be critical in continuing to develop our young core of players,” Pioli said in the statement. “In addition, Romeo’s extensive knowledge of our players, personnel, and needs make him a perfect fit to lead the Kansas City Chiefs.”

Crennel spent the last two seasons as Kansas City’s defensive coordinator. Prior to that he served as Cleveland’s head coach from 2005-2008. He compiled a 24-40 record, highlighted by a 10-6 campaign in 2007, but failed to qualify for the playoffs.

The 64-year-old Crennel has coached in the NFL for the last 30 years and won five Super Bowls as an assistant. He and Pioli were both with the Patriots when they captured three titles from 2001-2004.

The Chiefs face a degree of uncertainty heading into the offseason. Season-ending injuries to Jamaal Charles, Eric Berry, Tony Moeaki and Matt Cassel contributed to the team’s woes in 2011. All four will need to return to full health to improve the chances of success in 2012.

A decision on free agent Dwayne Bowe must also be made. The fifth-year pro has been their leading wide receiver for the last two years. His 15 scores in 2010 set a franchise record for touchdown receptions in a season.

Source: NFL.com