The Redskins' salary cap problems have not gone away under Gibbs' stewardship. They have nearly $20 million more allotted to the cap in 2008 than any other team. The mortgaging of draft picks over the last several years has left a somewhat barren young talent base to work from, although the team was beginning to make strides in that area.

Jason Campbell is a fine young quarterback to build around, despite Gibbs' lukewarm vote of confidence Monday. Perhaps the most positive long-term development of the Gibbs era has been their development of role players in the 2007 season. They are still one of the most top-heavy rosters in the league, but their depth has improved. That gives them hope for next season, but only if the coaching staff has continuity.

The Redskins will begin to look for their next head coach, and the early favorite has to be Redskins defensive assistant head coach Gregg Williams. Williams gets a $1 million bonus if he isn't chosen, and I suspect only a big-name like Bill Cowher could beat him out.

Owner Dan Snyder showed rare restraint last offseason by staying fiscally responsible in the free agent market. The Redskins didn't just look for the biggest name possible. That approach would serve them well in their coaching search, as Williams and offensive assistant head coach Al Saunders could continue to build the program that Gibbs started. "Change" is the annoying political buzzword of the moment, but continuity in this Washington staff would serve the Redskins well.