Clarity

So life has been good job wise. I received a few job offers this week. while the timing isn't ideal its landed me in a situation that has me worried. I start a new position over night this evening. its a solid position but its by the airport which is my only reservation. I got another opportunity from a separate location by the beach which I would love to do. But during the second interview today the manager made it clear that he's not in a rush for me to start as the position is soon to vacate as that associate is going back to school. They did offer me the job and even talked pay with me. Maybe im over thinking it. But it just feels off that a manager would word it like that?