QUOTE: “I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. ‘Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but they whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves their conduct, will pursue their principles unto death.” -- Leonardo da Vinci

Wednesday afternoon, the news that Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry had been in a major accident and was on life support caused me great sorrow. This morning, the news grew even worse with word that Henry had died from injuries after falling out of the back of a pickup truck. He was just getting his life turned around, which allowed him to get his football career turned around, and then this horrible accident happened. This is so sad, and it seems as if sad news has surrounded the Bengals this season. First, defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer loses his wife Peggy, and now this. All of us here at the National Football Post send our prayers to the Henry family.

This morning, ESPN Radio 980 in Washington D.C. reported that Vinny Cerrato has resigned as the vice president of the Redskins. What does this mean for the ‘Skins? Well, this isn't the first time Cerrato has been fired by the team. The last time, he was fired by then-coach Marty Schottenheimer, who had all the power -- and once Schottenheimer was fired, Cerrato was brought back. Now, there will be no bringing him back. It is being reported that the 'Skins have hired Bruce Allen as their vice president of football operations and general manager.

Here’s what Cerrato had to say about his departure, issued as a statement released by the team: “We agreed that the franchise needs someone different in this position. I'm thankful to Dan Snyder and other members of his ownership team for the opportunities I've been given over the years.”

So what does it mean? It means that many of us, including me, were wrong in thinking that Cerrato would remain in spite of the likely change in coaches. Now, the decks have been fully cleared for the next head coach/general manager. And my sources tell me that it will still be Mike Shanahan; pay no attention to timing of the move, which some would imply has something to do with Mike Holmgren. This move allows the next head coach (Shanny) to walk into the building with all the authority and allows him to rebuild and repair the organization — with each new hire coming with his blessing.

More to come on this story in the Tavern. I’m headed to D.C. now to get more news.

Follow me on Twitter: michaelombardi

To read about why Cleveland's excitement over Mike Holmgren should be tempered, check out this article from Bleacher Report.