The Redskins wasted little time in saying goodbye to their head coach, firing Jim Zorn shortly after Washington returned home from a disappointing 23-20 loss in San Diego that finished their dismal 2009 campaign.

Zorn had been somewhat optimistic about his chances of retaining his position when he spoke with the media following the game on Sunday, but owner Dan Snyder and general manager Bruce Allen had other ideas, cutting Zorn loose in lightning quick fashion and setting the stage for negotiations with former Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan.

The Redskins have long been linked to Shanahan, and that connection could be made final fairly quick, depending on how willing Snyder is to open up his checkbook. But given his history of doling out big time cash to players/coaches he covets, there’s little doubt that money will stand in the way of a deal getting done between the two sides.

The firing of Zorn is likely to be the first of several to come today, with teams that are finished for the year starting their off-season goals this morning. As always, we’ll keep you posted if and when any news breaks.

Other posts you may enjoy:

1. Shanahan on his way to Washington?
2. Cerrato jumps ship in Washington; Shanahan on his way?
3. Chicago, Houston potential landing spots for Shanahan
4. Bills looking to Shanahan as new head coach?
5. Discussion: Hot seat coaches beginning to take shape