The marathon interview between the Kansas City Chiefs and coach Andy Reid has sparked a report that a deal is close. But Reid's actions tell a a different story.
Reid will interview with the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday as planned, according to NFL.com's three amigos: Steve Wyche, Ian Rapoport and Albert Breer. Reid also plans to interview with the San Diego Chargers this weekend, which is near where he owns a home, someone with knowledge of the meetings told Wyche.
This officially is silly season when it comes to coaching news. ESPN reported just two days ago that there was a "95%" chance Reid would land in Arizona. Now the same network is reporting Reid and the Chiefs are close to a deal. That very well might prove correct, but he still plans to meet with two other teams.
Those interviews could change Reid's plans. Or he could change his mind again and close the deal in Kansas City. ESPN reported the "major issues" had been agreed upon with the Chiefs and a deal will happen fast. Reid reportedly started telling assistant coaches about the plan to go to Kansas City.
Rapoport reported Reid has told Chiefs owner Clark Hunt that he's a package deal with former Cleveland Browns general manager Tom Heckert, according to a source with knowledge of Reid's pitch. Heckert is a former Philadelphia Eagles GM who worked with Reid from 2001 to 2009.
This time of year stands as a great reminder that all this information comes from sources with their own agendas. But it appears the window to hire Reid will close quickly. The Cardinals aren't counting on him: They asked for permission to interview Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley.
The Chargers, meanwhile, could be motivated if they talk to Reid. Rapoport pointed out that former Green Bay Packers general manager Ron Wolf previously has said his biggest regret was not hiring Reid. Wolf now is consulting with the Chargers to help their coaching search.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.
