There has been some speculation lately as to whether or not a couple of people from the Arizona Cardinals coaching staff would be returning next season. Both tight ends coach Freddie Kitchens and offensive line/run game coordinator guru Russ Grimm had yet to sign the two year contract extensions they had been offered.
That all changed yesterday as one of them put ink on the dotted line to remain in Arizona for the next two seasons. See who after the jump, as well as some news regarding the quarterback coaching vacancy.
XTRA 910's Mike Jurecki announced via Twitter that TE coach Freddie Kitchens signed his extension and will return to the team in 2012. Kitchens worked with a group of players that, for the first time in a while, became utilized in the Cardinals offense. Kitchens' main job next season will be to get Rob Housler some more experience and the tools he needs to become a more well-rounded tight end.
Jurecki also noted that Russ Grimm intends to sign his new two-year deal this week. There was the thought that Grimm could be departing for another job around the league, but it seems that the $1.5 million he made last year and a possible increase in his new deal were enough to keep him around. Grimm also holds the title of assistant head coach in Arizona, something that he may not get if he signed with another organization.
The last bit of news is that the Cardinals will apparently be interviewing two candidates for the open quarterbacks coach position. Neither of these men were identified. Arizona fired QB coach Chris Miller just a short time ago, leading people to think that a Todd Haley return was inevitable.
In that scenario, Haley would have taken over as the offensive coordinator, leaving current OC Mike Miller as the new QB coach. While that could still happen, the Cards are still going to do their due diligence and interview some other candidates. At this point, they may be ready to move on from the Haley idea, but we will have to sit tight and see.
We invite you to follow Revenge of the Birds on Twitter at @revengeofbirds and like us on Facebook. Also, follow me on Twitter at @TylerNickelASU.