Jim Zorn Fired

Jim Zorn has, finally and/or officially, been fired by the Redskins. In a move that surprises no one, GM Bruce Allen announced that the team would be going in a different direction next season. Zorn was given the news at a 4 a.m. meeting upon the team's return from San Diego.

"The status quo is not acceptable," Allen said in a statement. "I felt it was necessary to not waste a moment of time to begin building this team into a winner."

Zorn has been on the hot seat for several months -- and more or less considered all but fired for the last few weeks -- and the Redskins are now free to pursue the available candidates out there.

It's widely rumored -- and believed by plenty of people -- that they have a deal already in place with Mike Shanahan and have circumvented the Rooney Rule by interviewing Zorn assistant Jerry Gray a month ago.

Allen has scheduled a 12:30 press conference to discuss his decision.In his two years as Redskins head coach, Zorn produced a 12-20 record and was 6-18 in his last 24 games. Washington finished the 2009 season with a 4-12 record.

Update: 'Skins owner Daniel Snyder released the following statement about the personnel moves:

"This has been an extremely difficult season for our organization and for the fans. Bruce Allen spent many hours examining the football operations, and we are both determined to do whatever it takes to build a championship team. That process begins today.

"No one in the organization is satisfied with our record over the last two years, and I am sure that Jim would concur with that statement. It has been painful for him too. I certainly accept responsibility for mistakes that I have made. I am hopeful that our fans will accept my commitment and pledge to deliver a franchise that can compete in the NFC East every season.

"Finally, I am mindful that this is a tough day for Jim and his family, and I do want to wish him success in his next endeavor."