Parcells not joining the Atlanta Falcons

NEW YORK, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Bill Parcells has nixed an offer to become the Atlanta Falcons' director of football operations.

The New York Daily News had reported the longtime coach was on the verge of accepting with a few minor details to be worked out.

Late in the day, Falcons' owner Arthur Blank released a statement saying Parcells backed out of an agreement and is entertaining an offer from the Miami Dolphins.

"Late last night it was revealed to the media by a source outside the Falcons that we were close to reaching an agreement with Bill Parcells to lead the club's football operations," Blank said.

"Prior to the information becoming public, we had reached an agreement in principle with Parcells and we met with him this morning to complete the contract. At that time, we were made aware by Parcells that he was considering a revised offer from the Miami Dolphins. He later informed us that he would not be signing a contract with us."

Miami officials have not commented.