former Steelers coach

WHY HE'D COME HERE

Would receive what's expected to be a record salary for an NFL coach, likely in excess of $10 million per season ... Team has plenty of talent, although there are questions at quarterback ... Energized after two years away from coaching.

WHY HE WOULDN'T

Still enjoying his lifestyle away from the game ... Might not want the pressure of coaching in New York ... Front-office structure with general manager Mike Tannenbaum might cause friction.

Odds: 3-1

Steve Spagnuolo

Giants defensive coordinator

WHY HE'D COME HERE

Is used to the New York market ... Has been aiming toward getting a head-coaching job the last three seasons ... Has an excellent rapport with players and has unquestioned brilliance as a defensive tactician.

WHY HE WOULDN'T

Uncertainty at quarterback, at least for the time being ... Would have to realign the Jets from a 3-4 defense to a 4-3.

Odds: 4-1

Marty

Schottenheimer

former NFL coach

WHY HE'D COME HERE

Was forced out as Chargers coach after a 14-2 season two years ago and still has a passion for the sport ... Son Brian is Jets' offensive coordinator ... Has expressed a willingness to coach again under the right circumstances.

WHY HE WOULDN'T

Has had personnel clashes with general managers ... Has expressed a desire to accept a front-office position as opposed to coaching.

Odds: 5-1

Bill Parcells

Dolphins vice president of Football operations

WHY HE'D COME HERE

Never say never with Parcells ... Has an out clause in his Dolphins contract that allows him to walk away with a change in ownership, which is pending ... Repeatedly has come back to coach after recharging his emotional batteries ... Has always enjoyed coaching in the New York market.

WHY HE WOULDN'T

Still not convinced he'd have the energy, at 67, to coach for a sustained period ... Quarterback situation might not allow him to win immediately ... Would be coaching against the team he just left in Miami.

Odds: 7-1

Jim Schwartz

Titans defensive coordinator

WHY HE'D COME HERE

Has long been respected as one of the league's top defensive coordinators, especially now that Tennessee has the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs ... Has been on a track to become a head coach in recent years, having interviewed for several openings ... Has connections with Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum ... Could lure Kerry Collins as a free-agent quarterback.

WHY HE WOULDN'T

After he was passed over for other openings, there might be a feeling that perhaps he isn't an elite head-coaching prospect.

Odds: 10-1