The Facts: Jim Tressel's brief and ancillary role with the Colts might evolve into something more substantial. Owner Jim Irsay's plane flew Friday morning to Sarasota, Fla., where Tressel owns a home, and returned to Indianapolis later in the day. Multiple sources have said they expect the former Ohio State University coach to be interviewed for the Colts vacant head coaching position, but that could not be confirmed.

Diehards Line:The Colts were expected to interview Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr. on Thursday evening or Friday, and The Tennessean reported Titans defensive coordinator Jerry Gray also was interviewed Friday. Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer also has been identified as a candidate to replace Jim Caldwell, who was fired Tuesday. ... Tressel, 59, saw his 10-year stint as Ohio State's coach end in controversy and embarrassment. He resigned May 30 amid NCAA violations that included his unethical conduct. Despite the controversies surrounding Tressel, the Colts hired him in September. The Colts reconsidered Tressel's addition to their staff, and decided to "suspend" him for the first seven games of the season. He first worked for the team Oct. 30 when it visited the Titans. His primary role was as replay consultant on game day.