The Mike Holmgren era is over in Cleveland. Browns new owner Jimmy Haslam will be replacing Holmgren with former Eagles executive Joe Banner. That much we know.
What we don't know is when, exactly, Holmgren's "retirement" will take place -- now or at the end of the season. Several reports have suggested that Holmgren will be out within 24 hours while others say it will come at season's end.
To be clear, #browns president mike holmgren will retire at end of season, source confirmed. At least that's plan for now.
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) October 16, 2012
"For now" being the key words there. What's the point of keeping Holmgren on until the end of the season? Really, what is the point? He won't be making any of the big decisions anymore and he isn't in it for the longterm. There is no point to keeping him around, especially now that the news is out there publicly.
The timing doesn't really matter a whole lot. Whether it's now or at the end of the season, Holmgren is out in Cleveland.
By the end of the season, we'll know if Pat Shurmur will be joining him.