Vikings' Frazier, Jags' Smith interview with Falcons
By STEVE WYCHE
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 01/20/08
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier interviewed for the Falcons' coaching job Friday night and Saturday, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. It was Frazier's first interview with the team and with newly hired general manager Thomas Dimitroff.
The Falcons also on Friday brought Jacksonville defensive coordinator Mike Smith to Flowery Branch for a second interview — his first with Dimitroff.
Smith joins former Baltimore defensive coordinator Rex Ryan as the available candidates to have a second interview with the Falcons.
No offer was extended to Frazier or to Smith.
Frazier, 48, recently interviewed for Miami's coaching job. The Dolphins hired Dallas offensive assistant Tony Sparano.
A 19-year coaching veteran, Frazier has gone from the Eagles' defensive backs coach in 1999 to twice being a defensive coordinator, first in Cincinnati (2003-04) and most recently, as Mike Tomlin's replacement in Minnesota.
Frazier's stoic but communicative coaching style has drawn comparisons to Tomlin, who was hired as Pittsburgh's head coach in 2007. Under Frazier, the Vikings finished No. 1 against the run, 20th overall in defense and tied for 11th in points allowed.
Frazier, a defensive back on the Chicago Bears' 1985 Super Bowl championship team, is the third defensive coordinator the Falcons have interviewed to replace Bobby Petrino as head coach.
LINK
http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sp...cons_0120.html
Vikings' Frazier, Jags' Smith interview with Falcons
Vikings' Frazier, Jags' Smith interview with Falcons
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