Still looking for a job, Martz likely to sit out a year

ST. LOUIS -- Former Rams coach Mike Martz believes the longer he stays unemployed, the greater the probability he won't coach next season.

Martz, who led St. Louis to four playoff berths and a Super Bowl in six seasons, was fired the day after the season ended. He's been mentioned as a candidate for the offensive coordinator's job in Miami, where Scott Linehan left to become the Rams' coach.

"It's news to me," Martz said. "I've never talked to them. I don't know anything about it."

Earlier this month, Martz interviewed in New Orleans for the head coaching job that went to Sean Payton. He said he is in no hurry to find another job.

Martz and the Rams reached a settlement believed to be about half the $3.25 million he was owed for the final year of a three-year contract.

Martz missed the last 11 games of the season with endocarditis, a bacterial infection of a heart valve. However, he said his health is not a concern.

"It's just time to let things settle," Martz said. "I think eventually it will work out. But I'm in no hurry."

Martz is in the process of putting his St. Louis County home on the market. He plans on leaving in about a week for San Diego, where he has a second home, to spend time there.

Martz said he was flattered by complimentary remarks made by Linehan at his introductory news conference in St. Louis on Friday. Martz helped the Rams lead the NFL in offense three straight seasons from 1999 to 2001, the first as the coordinator and the last two as head coach.

Martz returned the compliment to Linehan.

"He'll make his mark," Martz said. "He's a bright guy, and he's got the players' respect."