Eagles Interviews in Atlanta Today, Denver Sunday

The Eagles' head coaching interview process started today in Atlanta with Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan, who is the former head coach of the 49ers, and special teams coordinator Keith Armstrong, sources close to the situation confirmed.

The Birds are scheduled to interview Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy on Sunday in Denver, a source said.

Assistants from playoff teams with byes must be interviewed this week. The Eagles were scheduled to talk to Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter, as well, but he signed a contract extension and will stay in Atlanta. It is unusual for a special teams coordinator who hasn't done any other job in the NFL to get a lot of head coaching buzz, but Armstrong already has interviewed with the Bears and Chiefs. His special teams are impressive, but he also satisfies the "Rooney Rule," which stipulates teams seeking head coaches have to intrview a minority candidate.

Next week is the window for assistants from teams playing this weekend, who advance.

Oregon coach Chip Kelly is thought to be at the top of the list of candidates, possibly followed by Penn State coach Bill O'Brien. The Harrisburg Patriot-News has said the Eagles are among three teams expected to interview O'Brien, who would require a $9.4 million buyout from his Penn State contract.

-- Les Bowen