Now the waiting game begins as Saunders attempts to get a head-coaching job. He will talk to the Chiefs about replacing Dick Vermeil and probably will have one or more interviews in the coming weeks.

The Lions, who fired Steve Mariucci several weeks ago, could come calling. As many as eight other teams could be looking for new head coaches as soon as today.

Saunders wouldn’t answer questions about his future Sunday. But after the Chiefs finished a fourth straight season among the league leaders in scoring and yardage, his prospects of becoming a head coach have never been better.

“Without any question, he’ll get some interviews,” Chiefs president/general manager Carl Peterson said. “He deserves it.”

Vermeil campaigned one final time after Sunday’s game for Saunders to be his successor.

“A number of people who have been given opportunities are not nearly as qualified,” Vermeil said. “He’s paid his dues. He’s done a remarkable job here.”