All good things must come to an end at some point. Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Bill Cowher finally resigned after 16 years as the team's head coach. Cowher was able to finally accomplish his goal of winning a Super Bowl last season, before finishing at a mediocre 8-8 this season. Cowher had been the team's head coach since 1992.

The Steelers aren't waiting long to find their next head coach, but whoever they pick may stick around for a long time. The Steelers have only had two coaches since 1969: Chuck Noll and Cowher. Cowher wants to spend some more time with his family, but that doesn't mean he has retired by any means. Many believe that after taking a year off, Cowher will try to return as a head coach in 2008.

"I wish the Steelers nothing but the best, but I've given a lot of thought to this decision," Cowher said. "To be honest, I'm looking forward to it, spending time with the family. ... Working in a world that is so regimented and scheduled, the ability to sit back at my age and spend time with family and be a big part of their lives again really excites me."

Cowher stated that he is not tired of coaching whatsoever.

"I'm not burned out," he said. "But there comes a time in your life -- I'm healthy and happy, and I've been fortunate -- when you've got to prioritize things. My family has made a lot of sacrifices for me, and I'm looking forward to being there for them. It's the right time."

The Steelers have been the centerpiece of the AFC North most of the time since Cowher has been with the team. Cowher led the Steelers to the postseason ten times. The Steelers will give strong consideration to assistant head coach/offensive line coach Russ Grimm as their next head coach, as well as offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt. Both of them are already interviewing with other teams though, so the Steelers may have to make their decision fast.

If Cowher does return to the NFL in 2008, he will want to be one of the league's highest-paid coaches. And, based on his track record and the annual need for coaches, I wouldn't be surprised if a team forked over a whole lot of money to get him to sign on.

If you have a comment regarding Bill Cowher resigning, his tenure with the team, or his possible return in 2008, leave us a comment below and you'll be featured in our next mailbag session.