The announcement last month of Sarkisian as the Atlanta Falcons ' Offensive Coordinator came as a big surprise to some. The Falcons were keenly aware that they would have a big hole to fill with Kyle Shanahan's expected defection to helm the San Francisco 49ers .
A day after New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels withdrew his name from consideration for the 49ers' head-coaching opening, Seattle executive Trent Kirchner did the same regarding their general-manager vacancy, NFL Network reported. Kirchner interviewed with the 49ers on Monday, as did Scott Fitterer , the Seahawks ' other co-director of player personnel.
In this Dec. 18, 2016, file photo, Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan walks on the turf before an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in Atlanta. In this Dec. 18, 2016, file photo, Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan walks on the turf before an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in Atlanta.