One reason the Lions want to sign a new head coach as soon as possible is so that he can assemble a coaching staff from the best qualified candidates available.

Ken Whisenhunt, the San Diego offensive coordinator, is considered the favorite for the Lions even though they have interviewed three other candidates.

Michael Silver of the NFL Network reported Monday afternoon that Whisenhunt has talked to some of the Chargers’ assistants about joining him at his new destination whether it’s Detroit, Nashville or elsewhere.

The Chargers could block moves if the assistants are signed through 2014 or longer.

It’s been reported by Jason La Canfora, CBS Sports NFL insider, that Whisenhunt is in end-of-season meetings with the Chargers today. The Chargers lost to the Broncos on Sunday in Denver.

Whisenhunt is also considered to be a candidate for the Titans.

The Lions’ other candidates include Mike Munchak, former Titans coach; Jim Caldwell, Ravens offensive coordinator; and former Texans coach Gary Kubiak.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Order her book,  “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know and Do Before They Die’’ here. It’s also available at bookstores.)