The NFL world convenes this week in Mobile, Alabama for the Senior Bowl. So who will show up representing the Cowboys?

Bill Parcells' "retirement" from coaching football Monday isn't a huge surprise, but the timing leaves the Cowboys in a difficult position. Coaching staffs, young and old, use this week in Mobile to scout future draft picks and interview prospective coaching candidates. A few members of Parcells' staff already departed in recent weeks, perhaps reading the tea leaves more accurately than many members of the media.

The only two head coaching vacancies in the NFL now exist in Oakland and Dallas. It's purely speculation, but the lack of a ready statement from Jerry Jones may indicate that the decision took Jones by surprise. Jones has surely been aware in recent weeks that Parcells could leave, and should have a short list of possible candidates.

Jeff Fisher was rumored to be a target of Jones, but the Titans seem unlikely to let him go. Chargers defensive coordinator has been mentioned and knows how to run the 3-4 defense. It's anyone's guess who else is on the list, but Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera has been a hot candidate.

The Cowboys job is still a plum position, no matter how much Jerry Jones meddles in day-to-day affairs. While Parcells couldn't win a playoff game in Dallas, the team has plenty of young talent locked up long term.

Finally, I thought it was interesting that Parcells said he was retiring from "coaching football" in his statement released on Monday. That may indicate that he's looking to work in a front office elsewhere.

One thing is certain. No matter what Parcells does, rumors about his future will follow. He wouldn't have it any other way.