Report: Bears Request Permission To Interview Lions DC Teryl Austin
(CBS) The Bears have requested permission to interview Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin for their head coaching vacancy, the Chicago Tribune reported Friday afternoon.
Austin has also been linked to interviews with the Falcons, 49ers and Bills, according to reports. He 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.
The Bears have already interviewed Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase, Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn and Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles for their coaching spot.
New Bears general manager Ryan Pace said Friday that he has no preference over hiring an offensive-minded or defensive-minded coach.
"It's just the best man for the job," Pace said.