National Football League

Lions DC Teryl Austin says Falcons, 49ers have reached out

Published Jan. 1, 2015 4:21 p.m. ET

foxsports

Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin says the Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers have asked permission to talk to him about their coaching vacancies.

Austin has helped turn the Lions into one of the league's top defensive teams in his first season as their coordinator. He says he'll only interview next week if he can do so without compromising his current team's preparation for a playoff game. Of course, that's only an issue if Detroit beats Dallas this weekend and advances.

Lions coach Jim Caldwell says Austin deserves a chance to be a head coach.

Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase is expected to interview with San Francisco on Friday.