Mangini eyes aides

by Rich Cimini
New York Daily News

New Jets coach Eric Mangini has narrowed his search for an offensive coordinator to two candidates – Chris Palmer and Pat Shurmur – according to sources.
Palmer, most recently the Texans’ coordinator, may have the edge over the less-experienced Shurmur, but Palmer also is considered the leading candidate in Dallas. Because he has worked previously under Bill Parcells, Palmer may be leaning toward the Cowboys. Yesterday, he interviewed with the Saints for the quarterbacks-coach vacancy, but that isn’t considered a likely landing spot.

Shurmur, 40, has spent the last four seasons as the Eagles’ quarterbacks coach. He has talked with the Jets about their opening, a source said.

Mangini doesn’t appear to be in any rush, and he may continue to investigate potential replacements for Mike Heimerdinger. But unless a candidate unexpectedly shakes free, the front-runners are Palmer and Shurmur.

Although no announcement has been made, the Jets have hired Tony Wise to coach the offensive line, a source said. He will replace Doug Marrone, who was hired yesterday as the Saints’ offensive coordinator/line coach under new coach Sean Payton.

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