McKay offered extension to remain as president
Coordinators not in line for coaching job
By STEVE WYCHE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 01/05/08
One high-ranking Falcons employee is staying. Another could be going.
Rich McKay was offered a multiyear contract extension with a raise to remain as team president by owner Arthur Blank after Blank decided to strip McKay of his general manager title two weeks ago, two people with knowledge of the situation confirmed.
Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who has been told by the team that he will not be considered for the head coaching job, interviewed for the Cincinnati Bengals' defensive coordinator's job Friday, a person with knowledge of the situation told the AJC.
Falcons offensive coordinator Hue Jackson also was told that he would not be considered for the head coaching vacancy, the person said.
McKay's deal has been agreed to in principle, but some details are being completed.
The Falcons declined comment on both subjects.
Though Blank seemingly grew disenchanted with McKay's handling of the Falcons' football operations following coach Bobby Petrino's late-season resignation, he values McKay's advice, football acumen and ties to the NFL. McKay is co-chairman of the league's competition committee and sits on other league committees.
Blank hired McKay from Tampa Bay in December 2003 as president and general manager, putting him in charge of all football operations and other business dealings.
McKay was notified that he would be relieved of his football duties roughly two weeks ago, after Petrino's resignation and Blank's apparent agreement with former Cowboys coach Bill Parcells to take over football operations. Parcells backed out of the deal to join Miami, but Blank stuck with his decision to find a new GM.
McKay's recommendation of Petrino and previous coach Jim Mora — others, including Blank, were in on the final decision to hire both — as well as mediocre drafts, lukewarm free-agent acquisitions and the surreal turmoil that engulfed the 4-12 Falcons this season prompted Blank's decision to go in a new direction.
FULL STORY
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sp...ckay_0105.html
Falcons McKay offered extension to remain as president
Falcons McKay offered extension to remain as president
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