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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

NFL notes: Falcons appear willing to wait for Seahawks’ Dan Quinn

Associated Press

The Atlanta Falcons’ coach search could become a waiting game if their top candidate is Seattle defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.

Atlanta already has conducted its first interview with Quinn. The Seahawks will play Green Bay in Sunday’s NFC championship game.

If Seattle beats Green Bay, Quinn may not be available for a second interview until after the Feb. 1 Super Bowl.

The NFL’s anti-tampering policy allows teams to conduct follow-up interviews – but not first interviews – in the bye week following conference championship games. Seattle could deny permission for the second interview until after the Super Bowl.

Quinn has also met with the Bears.

Around the league

Ray Rice reached a settlement on his grievance against the Baltimore Ravens, according to two people familiar with the case. . … The Giants are bringing back Steve Spagnuolo as defensive coordinator. … Houston DE J.J. Watt, Pittsburgh WR Antonio Brown, Cleveland CB Joe Haden and Dallas RB DeMarco Murray will serve as Pro Bowl captains for the Sunday, Jan. 25 game at University of Phoenix Stadium. … Broncos WR Emmanuel Sanders was selected to play in his first Pro Bowl. He replaces injured Falcons WR Julio Jones. … Bill Callahan is joining the Redskins as offensive line coach after working for the rival Cowboys the past three seasons. … Scott Linehan, who played QB at Idaho, is returning to the Cowboys along with coach Jason Garrett and will add the title of offensive coordinator after one season as Tony Romo’s play-caller. … The NFL is adding a combine for veteran players to go with the massive event it holds for potential draftees. … Bills coach Rex Ryan wasted no time assembling his new staff, which will include his longtime assistant Dennis Thurman taking over as defensive coordinator. … A person familiar with the process said the Browns have interviewed former Bears coach Marc Trestman for their open offensive coordinator position. … The Colts placed backup linebacker Josh McNary on the commissioner’s exempt list.