Jets likely to announce Cavanaugh today

The New York Jets are expected to announce the hiring of Pitt offensive coordinator Matt… The New York Jets are expected to announce the hiring of Pitt offensive coordinator Matt Cavanaugh today, according to a source close with the situation. The Panthers’ offensive coordinator since 2005, Cavanaugh is expected to work as the quarterbacks coach with the Jets. He quarterbacked Pitt’s 1976 national championship team, and spent 14 years playing in the NFL. Even after helping orchestrate a turnaround in Pitt’s offensive production this past season, Cavanaugh was heavily criticized by fans and media commentators following Pitt’s 3-0 loss to Oregon State in the Brut Sun Bowl. Pitt coach Dave Wannstedt said Cavanaugh would return for next season and didn’t anticipate any major coaching changes. But news broke last week that Cavanaugh likely would bolt for the Jets, and all signs show that Cavanaugh’s departure will likely be made official as early as today. Cavanaugh began his coaching career at Pitt as tight ends coach, then coached for 10 years in the NFL. He served as offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens from 1999-2004, helping the Ravens to a Super Bowl win during the 2000 season. There is no obvious replacement for Cavanaugh, and Pitt will probably interview several candidates. The most likely in-house candidate is tight ends coach Brian Angelichio, who served as offensive coordinator for six seasons at Ithaca College.