NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Lovie Smith is interested in coaching the Buffalo Bills, but the former leader of the Chicago Bears will have competition for the role.
Whisenhunt had dinner with new Bills CEO Russ Brandon and other members of the team's staff Tuesday night in the Phoenix area. Interest is high on both sides, sources with knowledge of the process told Rapoport.
Tim Graham of The Buffalo News reported earlier Tuesday that Brandon is intrigued by the prospect of Whisenhunt becoming Chan Gailey's successor.
Whisenhunt was let go by the Cardinals after going 45-41 over six seasons in Arizona. The organization lost patience with Whisenhunt after this year's 5-11 debacle, but the Bills also see a coach who turned a longtime loser into a Super Bowl entry in 2009.
Whoever takes over in Buffalo will be asked to work alongside general manager Buddy Nix, who will be retained by the Bills despite a 16-32 record during his tenure.
The Bills are a busy bunch. They reportedly plan to interview Syracuse coach Doug Marrone, and ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the team also asked for permission to interview Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy.
Please try to keep up with all of this, won't you?
Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.