Compensatory draft choices; Bill Cowher

Today the NFL announced that the Steelers have been awarded three compensatory draft choices in the 2006 NFL draft: Two fourth-round picks (#'s 131 and 133), plus a fifth-round pick (#167). These picks serve as compensation for losing four unrestricted free agents last offseason (including Plaxico Burress, Kendrell Bell and Oliver Ross), while adding only one (Cedrick Wilson).

Meanwhile, speculation has been running rampant regarding Bill Cowher 's future since it was revealed that he purchased a new "retirement" home in North Carolina. Personally, I think it's much ado about nothing. I can't imagine Cowher quitting or changing jobs anytime soon. Why? Ben Roethlisberger. For the first time in his head-coaching career Cowher finally has a legitimate franchise quarterback - one that is now entering the prime of his career, no less. Cowher won a lot of regular season games with the likes of Kordell Stewart and Neil O'Donnell. But Roethlisberger gives him a chance to win championships, and cement his legacy as a Hall of Fame coach.

Plus, with a Super Bowl title on his resume, Cowher now stands to command more money than ever, probably in excess of five million dollars per year.