FLOWERY BRANCH — Bill Cowher has told the Atlanta Falcons that he’s not interested in their coaching vacancy.

According to a report Sunday on ESPN, the former Pittsburgh Steelers coach declined an interview offer because he wants to work his second season as a CBS television analyst next year.

Cowher has said he would take stay away from coaching at least two years. He resigned last Jan. 5 from the Steelers, one year after leading them to a Super Bowl title.

The Falcons, who are 3-11 entering Week 16, are searching to replace Bobby Petrino following the former coach’s abrupt resignation last week. Emmitt Thomas is the team’s interim coach, but at 65, he has little interest in pursuing the job.

In 15 years with the Steelers, Cowher went 161-99-1, helping them make 10 playoff appearances and win two AFC championships. His Super Bowl win was the franchise’s fifth.

The Falcons have just 10 winning records in their 42 years. This season is their 21st with at least 10 losses, and they were blown out in their lone Super Bowl appearance in January 1999.