Chip Kelly and the San Francisco 49ers are set to interview Buffalo Bills running backs coach Anthony Lynn for their offensive coordinator job, according to FOX Sports NFL reporter Alex Marvez. The 49ers interviewed him for their head coach position two weeks ago, but like John DeFilippo, it is possible the interview was more a warm-up for an OC interview.
Lynn did good work with rookie running back Karlos Williams, and practice squad back Mike Gillislee. Buffalo had the top ranked rushing attack in terms of total yards and yards per carry, and was ranked No. 2 by Football Outsiders. According to Buffalo Rumblings, Lynn turned down coordinator interviews last season. They said Rex Ryan speaks highly of him, but given that Rex can be a blustery individual, make of that what you want.
The 49ers have been connected with a handful of OC candidates in this process. Jennifer Chan reported last night that the team contacted Lane Kiffin. Ian Rapoport reported that Curtis Modkins was a key candidate in the search process. John DeFilippo was mentioned as a possibility, having interviewed the same week as Lynn, but he is expected to join the Philadelphia Eagles coaching staff as quarterbacks coach.
Here is a look at Lynn's experience since retiring as a running back. His playing career included two years with the 49ers in 1995 and 1996.
2015-present: Buffalo Bills - Running Backs/Assistant HC
2009-2014: New York Jets - Running Backs
2007-2008: Cleveland Browns - Running Backs
2005-2006: Dallas Cowboys - Running Backs
2003-2004: Jacksonville Jaguars - Running Backs
2000-2002: Denver Broncos - Special Teams assistant