FLOWERY BRANCH – The Falcons could be in danger of losing their second interviewee during the coaching search.
Rex Ryan jumped at the Buffalo job offer when the Falcons weren’t moving fast enough for his liking.
Now, Arizona defensive coordinator Todd Bowles is set to meet with the New York Jets today. It’s possible that he may never make his scheduled meeting with the Falcons on Wednesday if the Jets don’t let him out of the building.
According to Rich Cimini of ESPNNew York, Bowles bid is "gaining momentum" as he's set to meet with new Jets general manager Mike Maccagnan.
With John Fox being fired in Denver, Seattle defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is now considered one of Broncos’ top candidates which may trigger the Jets to shift to switch to Bowles, who’s from Elizabeth, N.J. Also, Detroit defensive coordinator Teryl Austin is schedule to interview with the Falcons on Thursday.
But would Bowles accept an offer from the Jets over the Falcons? The Jets have an unstable quarterback situation, while the Falcons have two-time Pro Bowler Matt Ryan.
Bowles interviewed with the Falcons on Saturday and is considered one of the leading candidates to replace head coach Mike Smith.
Credit: D. Orlando Ledbetter
Credit: D. Orlando Ledbetter
Bowles has been on the Falcons' radar from the outset of the coaching search, but couldn’t interview until the Cardinals were eliminated from the playoffs.
Bowles is believed to have a major supporter in the Falcons hierarchy in assistant general manager Scott Pioli, who’s father-in-law is Bill Parcells. Bowles worked for Parcells in Dallas and Miami.
He is one of the hottest candidates out on the NFL head-coaching circuit right now. He's considered a contender in Chicago and San Francisco.
Bowles could bring Arizona quarterback coach Freddie Kitchens or former Dallas Cowboys and Georgia Tech head coach Chan Gailey as his offensive coordinator.
Bowles was hired as the Cardinals defensive coordinator on Jan. 21, 2013 after spending the 2012 season with Philadelphia Eagles.
He’s a 14-year NFL assistant who has also coached with the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins during his career.
The Falcons have also interviewed special team coordinator Keith Armstrong, New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Denver offensive coordinator Andrew Gase and former Buffalo coach Doug Marrone.
REPLACING HEAD COACH MIKE SMITH
A tight look at the coaching candidates
7 major issues waiting for the new Falcons' coach
Falcons grew together before the downfall
Falcons OC Dirk Koetter hired by Tampa Bay
Report: Koetter interviews with Tampa Bay
Nolan packed up and left after Smith was fired
A quick look back at Mike Smith's tenure
Arthur Blank explains decision to fire Mike Smith, the winningest coach in franchise history
About the Author
