Watch CBS News

Bears Confirm Interviews With Doug Marrone, Teryl Austin

(CBS) The Chicago Bears confirmed Tuesday that they conducted interviews with ex-Bills head coach Doug Marrone and Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin for their vacant head coaching position.

Marrone was the coach of the Buffalo Bills the past two seasons, compiling a 15-17 record before exercising a $4 million opt out clause in his contract on Jan. 2.

There's a link between Marrone and Bears general manager Ryan Pace. Marrone was the Saints offensive coordinator from 2006 through 2008 while Pace worked there.

In his first season in New Orleans, Marrone took the Saints from 20th to first in yards and 31st to fifth in points scored. By his last season with the team, the Saints evolved to the league's top overall unit in both points scored and yardage.

Austin directed a Detroit defense that allowed 17.6 points per game in 2014, second-best in the league. The Lions also had the best rushing defense in the NFL, allowing 69.3 yards per game.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.