The Seahawks have arrived in Atlanta for Sunday’s divisional-round showdown against the Falcons. And with one day to go to finalize preparations for the game, Pete Carroll’s primary two coordinators have other plans.
Today’s the day on which offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell will interview with the Bears, and defensive coordinator Gus Bradley (pictured) will sit for the Eagles, via Albert Breer of NFL Network.
The rules allow it, but only with the express permission of the team. Since the Seahawks played in the bye week, their assistant coaches and the assistants from all other bye-week winners can be interviewed the week before the divisional-round game, if the interviewers come to them.
Carroll and the Seahawks didn’t have to grant permission; it’s another example of the fine line between thinking of the team and giving guys a chance to better themselves.
Surely, if Carroll thought it would be an unacceptable distraction, he wouldn’t have allowed it. And the interviews likely won’t stretch deep into the day and/or night, Chip Kelly-style. Still, at a time when the 12th man is hoping not to lose either coordinator, the thought of both of them taking time out from their game preparations to chase another job probably only adds to the sense of unease about the inevitable changes that come to a successful team once the playoff run has ended.
The 12th man surely hopes that’s still three weeks and a day away.