One of the interesting tidbits about San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt is that he was once teammates with Detroit Lions general manager Martin Mayhew. Whisenhunt was a tight end for the Washington Redskins from 1989-90, and Mayhew was a defensive back for the Redskins from 1989-92.

Now, just because two people were once teammates doesn't necessarily mean they are friends. In this case, though, Whisenhunt and Mayhew are actually "good friends," according to Whisenhunt. Dave Birkett was in San Diego on Thursday and spoke with Whisenhunt about Mayhew and the Lions.

Whisenhunt said he and Lions GM Martin Mayhew are "good friends" and he has "a tremendous amount of respect for Martin and what he's done" — Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) January 2, 2014

Whisenhunt said he hasn't had any contact with Lions; can't by NFL rules. Asked if he expects to be a HC he said he's not thinking about it — Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) January 2, 2014

Between this and the earlier report that the Lions have "very strong" interest in Whisenhunt, it would be a shock if he doesn't get an interview next week when NFL rules allow the two parties to speak. It would also be a shock if Whisenhunt isn't one of the finalists for the Lions' head coaching vacancy given how much sense it would seemingly make for the team to hire him.