An Update On the GM Search

The Eagles have expressed interest in Packers director of college scouting Brian Gutenkunst and Ravens director of college scouting Joe Hortiz for their vacant personnel executive position, according to Pro Football Talk. But they will not have the opportunity to interview either of them.

More from PFT:

Their teams either denied requests for permission or the candidates declined the opportunity.

Teams can deny permission because the job does not entail final say over the draft or the 53-man roster.

Earlier this month, Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie promoted G.M. Howie Roseman to the position of executive V.P. of football operations, gave coach Chip Kelly full power over personnel, and authorized Kelly to hire his own table-setter from a player standpoint.  Kelly has not yet made a hire, and some believe the perception of a power struggle between Kelly and Roseman has caused some candidates to decide to avoid becoming essentially the buffer between the coach and the guy in charge of negotiating contracts.

It’s fair to say that there is some uncertainty and uneasiness in league circles about the current set-up. And the job isn’t universally coveted because it doesn’t come with any real power. If Chip Kelly has final say over personnel and Howie Roseman is in charge of contract negotiations and salary cap management, where does that leave the new guy?

Seahawks director of scouting Scott Fitterer interviewed for the post but opted to stay in Seattle, per the Inquirer. Chiefs director of player personnel Chris Ballard was reportedly not interested in the gig. 

The NFL is like high school, everyone talks. Execs know how Chip really views the GM position, like coaches know what Jed really did to Jim

— John Middlekauff (@JohnMiddlekauff) January 29, 2015

While execs might not be lining up around the block, there are some attractive elements to the job. One, this is a desirable organization — and owner — to work for. And it is currently being led  by a head coach who has opened some eyes during his two seasons in the league. If you believe in Kelly and believe in the vision (and believe he is not going to bolt back to college), then you believe you can help construct a team that can be pretty special. There’s value in that, even if you are not getting much of the credit along the way.

The job isn’t for everybody, clearly. The search continues for the one that fits.