Quote:These are key questions that only the Falcons brass can answer.  

 

There are many variables in the equation that have come to mind in recent days: including the Bears and Broncos situations, how long would Teryl Austin be willing to wait for a contract offer, putting together a coaching staff, and the possibility of another HC position opening.  

 

I think everybody interviewed Teryl Austin. FBT pointed out he satisfies the Rooney Rule, which did not result in any minority hires two years ago. So it would be good for the NFL's image if the Falcons hire Austin. So another question is could that factor into Atlanta's decision to go with him instead of wait for the Seahawks to lose since there are no other minority coaches getting interviews for the job? But I still think it's Dan Quinn's job to lose if they can interview him a second time.

 

In Denver, it is Adam Gase's job to lose because Peyton Manning will be involved in the search and John Elway wants him to return for another season. A rumor is if Gase is not retained, Manning will retire. Elway, of course, left open the possibility of keeping Gase on as the offensive coordinator if not the head coach just to make sure Manning does not retire because of a coaching change. Because the job opened up late the Broncos probably are more willing to wait for Dan Quinn to be available than the Falcons, who have already interviewed all of their candidates.

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