Bill Parcells Calls It Quits

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He's a sure bet for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but Bill Parcells ended his coaching days with a simple email. After four years with Cowboys without a playoff win, the 65 year-old Parcells leaves a year early and with $5.5 million left on his contract.

"I am retiring from coaching football," Parcells said in a statement. "I want to thank Jerry Jones and Stephen Jones for their tremendous support over the last four years. Also, the players, my coaching staff and others in the support group who have done so much to help. Dallas is a great city and the Cowboys are an integral part of it. I am hopeful that they are able to go forward from here."

He plans to spend his retirement at a new home in Saratoga, New York. "I am in good health and feel lucky to have been able to coach in the NFL for an extended period of time," Parcells said. "I leave the game and the NFL with nothing but good feelings and gratitude to all the players, coaches and other people that have assisted me in that regard."

Although the Bill Parcells era is over on the sideline, some insiders predict he won’t stay away from football long. As a broadcaster or color commentator, his contract could outstretch his coaching salary, according media experts.