I could be very wrong, but, I believe its done through agents.. Most ADs use search agencies, who are constantly in touch with coach's agents.(Year round
) Almost every coach has an agent, and almost every agent is always looking for a better $$ situation for their client. Coach makes more money, agent makes more money.. Agents hold no loyalty to anyone but their clients. Don't think for a second that CBJs agent isn't constantly looking and keeping feelers out, that's his job.. Remember, Super Agent Jimmy Sexton is a Tennessee grad, who was involved with UT athletics while he was at UT has used Tennessee several times to get his clients raises at their present school.
So my answer is agents and search firms contacted eachother first, then as names go off the lists more phone calls are made between the 2..My guess is CBJs agent had been in conversations long before any interviews had occurred.