QBREES9

After weeks of speculation and deliberation, Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis has decided to retain Tom Cable as head coach for the 2010 season, a source close to the situation told ESPN on Saturday.

Cable will fulfill the final year of his contract with the Raiders, the source said.

When contacted, Raiders spokesman John Herrera did not confirm that Cable would remain coach for the 2010 season, saying only that, despite meetings into the night the past two days, no decision has been reached.

Cable had one year remaining on his contract. But after meeting with Cable again this week, Davis made a decision that will be popular among players by keeping his head coach in place, the source said.

Cable had widespread support throughout the players in the Raiders locker room.

But his return does not mean changes will not be made. Oakland will tinker with its assistant coaches. It did so Friday when it brought back defensive line coach Mike Waufle.

Cable's return continues what has been an offseaon of stability for head coaches. Many thought Cleveland could dismiss Eric Mangini, Jacksonville could dismiss Jack Del Rio, Dallas could dismiss Wade Phillips and Oakland could dismiss Cable.

Part of this is due to the financial uncertainty surrounding 2011, a year in which players said they are preparing to be locked out. With so much uncertainty, NFL owners are opting for stability with their coaches.

Adam Schefter is an NFL reporter for ESPN Insider.

www.sportsshooter.com/johnjcoleman

" Anyone can take a picture Only a Photographer can take a photograph "