Stanford finished the 2019 season a disappointing 4-8 as they battled a number of injuries at key positions throughout the year.
That record is just a blip on the radar of NFL teams though who believe that David Shaw has what it takes to successfully lead an NFL franchise. According to Jason La Canfora this morning, one of those teams with a current vacancy considering Shaw are the Washington Redskins.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was a guy that was brought up early on as a dream candidate for the Redskins, but the article points out that the price for him is likely too steep considering the admirable job he's done with a bunch of injuries to his team as they've found a way to get to 7-5.
The Carolina Panthers, who let go Ron Rivera last week, are another team who are likely to ask about Shaw's services, La Canfora adds. Former Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey, who was a Heisman finalist while at Stanford, has turned into a shining star on that Panthers squad and a reunion with his old coach would be compelling.
Shaw has fielded NFL interest seemingly every off season, always opting to stay with the Cardinal as he believes he has one of the best jobs in college football. However, this season was the first time he failed to win at least 8 games in a season since taking over the program following Jim Harbaugh's departure back in 2011. One has to wonder if that changes Shaw's perspective as NFL teams comes to kick the tires on his interest, or if it instead strengthens his resolve to return.
Shaw is 86-34 since taking over Stanford, leading the Cardinal to doublt-digit wins five times in nine seasons, and three Pac-12 titles.