Former New York Jets coach Rex Ryan, thought to be a top target for the Atlanta Falcons' coaching vacancy, is set to become the new coach of the Buffalo Bills, according to ESPN Insider Adam Schefter.

The Falcons were Ryan's preferred destination, according to a source, in part because of Atlanta's proximity to Clemson, where Ryan's son is a student-athlete.

Ryan had an extended interview with the Falcons on Tuesday. During the interview, a source said, owner Arthur Blank found out his mother had died. Blank put all business on hold, meaning scheduled interviews with Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin and Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles were pushed back to Friday and Saturday, respectively. There have been reports about Ryan not liking how the Falcons were dragging their feet. But Blank has every right to move at his own pace, particularly while dealing with a family tragedy.

Where the Falcons' search goes from here remains a mystery. The Falcons already interviewed Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase, former Bills coach Doug Marrone and internal candidate Keith Armstrong, along with Austin and Bowles. Blank would have to wait until Quinn's, McDaniels' and Gase's respective seasons are over for second interviews with those three. But if a guy such as Bowles or Austin aced the interview, it might be wise to make a move before another team does.

Quinn is thought to be near the top of the Falcons' list, but he's been touted as the favorite to land the Jets job. McDaniels would be the ideal hire for general manager Thomas Dimitroff, based on their previous relationship working together with the Patriots.

We'll see how this all plays out.