Falcons interview tracker: Every name linked to head coach, GM openings

Atlanta Falcons owner and chairman Arthur Blank opted to make sweeping changes after his team missed the playoffs for an eighth straight season. Blank cleaned house, firing head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot within a few hours of the team's season finale.

The Falcons named Matt Ryan their new president of football last Saturday, and the former league MVP helped lead the charge to hire Kevin Stefanski as the 20th head coach in franchise history. Now just the general manager position remains.

Follow along with every interview, update and rumor on the Falcons' quest to fill out their front office and coaching staff.

Falcons officially hire Ian Cunningham as GM | Jan. 29 (at 9:15 p.m. ET)

The Falcons have officially hired Ian Cunningham as their general manager. President of football Matt Ryan put out a statement on why Cunningham was the right man for the job.

"It was evident through our rigorous interview process Ian was the right choice for our general manager position," wrote Ryan. "His vision for our team and organization aligned exactly with the type of leader we were seeking to help take the Falcons to the next level. Throughout Ian's career, including Super Bowl championships in Baltimore and Philadelphia, Ian has demonstrated the drive and focus it takes to build championship contenders and put them in the position to win games. We love his broad and deep experience across every aspect of talent evaluation and know he's learned from some of the best in the league. Pairing him with Coach Stefanski is exciting for us, and we can't wait to see them bring our shared vision to life in everything we do starting right now."

Falcons complete interview with Texans assistant GM James Liipfert | Jan. 22 (2 p.m. ET)

The Falcons completed their first official interview for the team's general manager vacancy, speaking with Houston Texans assistant GM James Liipfert on Thursday. Liipfert, who previously served as the Texans executive director of player personnel and the assistant director of personnel/director of college scouting, was promoted to assistant general manager in 2025. Houston's drafting in recent years has helped the team assemble one of the NFL's top defenses.

"James Liipfert has an awesome reputation and respect within the scouting community for his evaluation skills," wrote ESPN's Field Yates. "Really smart dude! He’s done it at both the pro and college level and played a real role in building the best defense in the NFL."

Falcons officially hire Tommy Rees, retain multiple assistants | Jan. 22 (1:05 p.m. ET)

As expected, the Falcons officially hired Tommy Rees as their new offensive coordinator on Thursday afternoon. Rees, who played quarterback at Notre Dame, spent two years with Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland. Atlanta also added offensive line coach Bill Callahan and Jacqueline Roberts as manager of coaching operations. Running backs coach Michael Pitre, assistant offensive line coach Nick Jones and senior defensive assistant Dave Huxtable have also been retained.

Falcons expected to hire Browns OC Tommy Rees | Reported Jan. 21 (4:25 p.m. ET)

The Atlanta Falcons are expected to hire Tommy Rees as their new offensive coordinator, according to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Rees previously served as the Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator under Stefanski in 2025 after joining the staff as an assistant in 2024. Prior to his stint in Cleveland, Rees was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Alabama in 2023, and held the same role at Notre Dame from 2020-2023.

Falcons request interview with Texans assistant GM James Liipfert | Reported Jan. 21

Another report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport suggests the Falcons have requested an interview with Houston Texans assistant GM James Liipfert for the team's general manager vacancy.

Falcons request to interview Chiefs assistant GM Mike Bradway | Reported Jan. 21 (3:48 p.m. ET)

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the Falcons requested an interview with Kansas City Chiefs assistant GM Mike Bradway for their general manager vacancy.

Falcons request interview with Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham | Reported Jan. 21

According to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Falcons have requested an interview with Chicago Bears general manager Ian Cunningham for the their GM vacancy. Cunningham previously interviewed for the team's president of football role.

Falcons request interview with 49ers director of scouting/football Josh Williams for GM opening | Reported Jan. 21

According to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Falcons are requesting an interview with 49ers director of scouting and football Josh Williams. The Falcons previously interviewed Williams for their president of football role, and they will likely get to do so again for their general manager opening.

Falcons request interview with Steelers assistant GM Andy Wiedl | Reported Jan. 20

According to multiple reports, the Falcons requested to interview Pittsburgh Steelers assistant general manager Andy Wiedl for their general manager vacancy.

Falcons interview Cardinals pass-game coordinator Drew Terrell for OC job | Reported Jan. 20 (5:45 p.m.)

According to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons interviewed Arizona Cardinals pass-game coordinator/wide receivers coach Drew Terrell for their offensive coordinator vacancy. Terrell spent the last three seasons with the Cardinals. Before that, he was a wide receivers coach for the Washington Commanders from 2020-2022.

Falcons hire offensive line coach Bill Callahan | Jan. 20 (10 a.m. ET)

The Falcons are hiring veteran offensive line coach Bill Callahan, the team announced on Tuesday. Callahan has been coaching since the 1990s and spent four years with head coach Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland from 2020-2023.

Falcons retain defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich | Jan. 19 (10 a.m. ET)

The Falcons have made it official. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is set to return in 2026.  Atlanta's defense finished second in the NFL with 57 total sacks, setting a new franchise record in the process. This was a massive improvement for a team that finished 31st in the league last year with just 31 sacks. Aside from the sack numbers, the Falcons received major contributions from their rookies.

Falcons expected to hire Tommy Rees as offensive coordinator | Reported Jan. 18

According to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons are expected to hire former Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees for the same position in Atlanta. Rees has worked with Stefanski over the last two seasons in Cleveland and has served as an offensive coordinator at both Alabama and Notre Dame over the last five years.

Falcons name Kevin Stefanski 20th head coach in franchise history | Jan. 17 (9:55 p.m. ET)

After a thorough search, the Atlanta Falcons are hiring Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach. A two-time NFL Coach of the Year winner, Stefanski was among the most sought after candidates in the 2026 hiring cycle. The Falcons hosted Stefanski for a second interview on Saturday before naming him the 20th head coach in franchise history

Falcons to interview Kevin Stefanski for a second time | Reported Jan. 17 (11 a.m. ET)

The Falcons are hosting former Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski for a second interview on Saturday. Stefanski was one of the team's first interviews and will be the first candidate to land a second interview with Atlanta's front office. Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, went 45-56 over his six years in Cleveland and was fired after the 2025 season.

Falcons head coach interviews (9 total)| As of Jan. 17 (11 a.m. ET)

• Antonio Pierce (former Raiders HC)
• Jesse Minter (Chargers DC)
• Jeff Hafley (Packers DC)
• Mike McDaniel (former Dolphins HC)
• John Harbaugh (former Ravens HC)
• Kevin Stefanski (former Browns HC)
• Klint Kubiak (Seahawks OC)
• Anthony Weaver (Dolphins DC)
• Aden Durde (Seahawks DC)

Falcons to interview Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady | Reported Jan 16 (3:30 p.m. ET)

The Atlanta Falcons are expected to interview Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady for their head coaching vacancy on Sunday, according to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. This is the first time the Falcons have been linked to Brady, who's drawn interest from a few other teams with coaching vacancies. Buffalo finished third in total points this season (28.3 per game) and fourth in total yards (376.3 per contest).

Falcons complete interview with Antonio Pierce | Jan. 16 (1:35 p.m. ET)

As expected, the Falcons have completed an interview with former Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce for their coaching vacancy. Pierce took over as interim head coach when the Raiders fired Josh McDaniels midway through the 2023 season, leading the team to a 5-4 record. Las Vegas then hired Pierce as its full-time head coach in 2024 but fired him after a 4-13 season. Atlanta has now completed nine interview for its coaching vacancy.

REPORT: Former Browns coach Kevin Stefanski considered favorite?

According to Connor Hughes of SNYTV, former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is considered the favorite for the Falcons head coaching vacancy. Stefanski interviewed with the team last week and would make sense given the team's offensive personnel.

Falcons complete interview with Chargers DC Jesse Minter | Jan 15 (3:10 p.m. ET)

The Falcons completed an interview with Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter for their head coaching vacancy, the team announced on Thursday. Minter joined Jim Harbaugh's staff in Los Angeles in 2024 after spending two seasons as the defensive coordinator at the University of Michigan. While the Chargers offense flamed out in the wild-card round, their defense gave Patriots quarterback Drake Maye fits. Minter is a bright defensive mind and is drawing interest around the league.

Falcons complete interview with Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley | Jan. 15 (12:15 p.m.)

The Falcons completed an interview with Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley for their head coaching vacancy on Thursday. Hafley's defense finished 11th in points allowed, giving up 21.2 per game. Green Bay ranked 11th in passing yards allowed per contest and recorded 36 total sacks this season. Prior to joining the Packers in 2024, Hafley spent four years as the head coach at Boston College, leading the team to a 22–26 record.

John Harbaugh finalizing deal to become Giants head coach | Reported Jan. 15 (12:01 a.m. ET)

ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that the New York Giants are finalizing a deal to make John Harbaugh their next head coach. Despite reports that the Falcons were going to interview him "over the next few days," Harbaugh likely won't make it to that meeting. Nothing is official yet, according to Schefter, but it looks like Atlanta will have to go in a different direction. Kevin Stefanski, Mike McDaniel and Klint Kubiak are still in the mix for the job.

Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson to interview with Lions | Reported Jan. 14 (8:07 p.m. ET)

According to a report from Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson is headed to Detroit to interview with the Lions on Thursday. The Lions fired offensive coordinator John Morton at the start of the offseason. While Robinson was frequently criticized for the offense's inconsistency and poor third-down performance, he has familiarity with Jared Goff from his time with the Los Angeles Rams.

Falcons QB coach D.J. Williams hired by Commanders | Reported on Jan. 14 (7:21 p.m. ET)

According to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Washington Commanders have poached Falcons quarterbacks coach D.J. Williams for the same position on Dan Quinn's staff in Washington. Williams joined Atlanta's coaching staff as an assistant coach in 2024 and was promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2025.

Falcons to host John Harbaugh for in-person interview | Reported Jan. 14 (4:48 p.m. ET)

While the Falcons have already interviewed former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh once over the phone, they will reportedly host him for a second interview. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Harbaugh is expected to meet with Atlanta's brass this week.

"The expectation is that John Harbaugh meets with the Falcons and the Titans over the next few days, then regroups," Fowler wrote on social media. "Given he’s in New York now, that can change, but that’s been the plan. As the top option on the board, he’s in a position to hear all three of those teams out."

Falcons to interview former Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce this week | Reported Jan. 14

According to a report from NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Atlanta Falcons are set to interview former Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce sometime this week. Pierce also interviewed with the New York Giants last week. According to Garafolo, Pierce will meet in person with Matt Ryan and the Falcons brass.

Falcons' completed head coach interviews | As of Jan. 14 (1 p.m. ET)

• Mike McDaniel (former Dolphins HC)
• John Harbaugh (former Ravens HC)
• Kevin Stefanski (former Browns HC)
• Klint Kubiak (Seahawks OC)
• Anthony Weaver (Dolphins DC)
• Aden Durde (Seahawks DC)

Falcons introduce Matt Ryan as President of Football (video) | Jan. 13

Falcons complete interview with former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel | Jan 12 (8:30 p.m. ET)

The Falcons completed their interview with former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel on Monday evening, the team announced. McDaniel was fired after going 35-33 over four seasons as the Dolphins coach. The former 49ers offensive coordinator used to be on the Falcons offensive staff back in 2016, so he has some familiarity with president of football Matt Ryan. McDaniel is an offensive mastermind who could help Michael Penix Jr. take that next step in his development while potentially keeping defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich in place. READ MORE

Falcons complete interview with former Ravens head coach John Harbaugh | Jan 12 (3:45 p.m. ET)

The Atlanta Falcons completed their interview with former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh on Monday afternoon, the team announced. Harbaugh was fired by the Ravens after 18 NFL seasons, but he's easily the most experienced coaching candidate on the market. Aside from being a Super Bowl champion and former NFL Coach of the Year, Harbaugh has been remarkably consistent throughout his NFL coaching career with an overall record of 180-113. READ MORE

Falcons to interview former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel | Jan 12 (8:30 a.m. ET)

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that the Falcons are one of four teams that will interview former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel this week. McDaniel was fired by the Dolphins a few days ago after going 35-33 in four seasons in Miami. He's another experienced candidate with ties to president of football Matt Ryan. READ MORE

Falcons request interview with Panthers DC Ejiro Evero | Jan. 11 (4:50 p.m. ET)

According to a report from NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Falcons have requested an interview with Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero for their head coaching vacancy. Atlanta interviewed Evero two years ago before hiring Raheem Morris. The Panthers secured their first NFC South title in 10 years behind a strong defense in 2025.

Falcons complete interview with Kevin Stefanski | Jan. 11 (3:45 p.m. ET)

The Falcons completed their interview with former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski, the team announced on Sunday afternoon. Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, is the fourth official candidate to interview for Atlanta's head coaching vacancy. He went 45-56 over his six years in Cleveland and was fired after the 2025 season. A bright offensive mind, Stefanski would have plenty of weapons to work with if he gets the job with the Falcons. READ MORE

Falcons' completed head coach interviews | As of Jan. 11

• Kevin Stefanski (former Browns HC)
• Klint Kubiak (Seahawks OC)
• Anthony Weaver (Dolphins DC)
• Aden Durde (Seahawks DC)

Falcons complete interview with Seahawks DC Aden Durde | Jan. 10 (10:25 p.m. ET)

The Falcons completed an interview with Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde for their head coach vacancy on Saturday evening, the team announced. Durde helped guide a dominant Seahawks defense to the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Seattle's versatile scheme has been tough for opposing offenses to figure out this season and Durde is starting to generate some buzz around the league with eight head coach openings available.

Falcons complete interview with Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak | Jan. 10

The Falcons have completed their interview with Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, the team announced on Saturday afternoon. It's the second interview Atlanta has completed since hiring Matt Ryan as the new president of football. Kubiak is expected to be a hot name during the 2026 hiring cycle after the Seahawks' impressive 14-3 season. Seattle's balanced offensive attack finished third in points per game last season, averaging 28.4 points per contest.

Falcons to interview Seahawks DC Aden Durde (report) | Jan. 10

According to a report from NFL Network's Pelissero, the Falcons will also interview Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde for their head coaching vacancy. Seattle had an incredible season and the defense was a large reason why. The Falcons will have interviewed both of the Seahawks' coordinators before the process is over.

Falcons complete interview with Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver | Jan. 10

The Falcons named Matt Ryan as their president of football on Saturday morning and they've already begun working through their head coach interviews. Atlanta interviewed Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver on Saturday afternoon, the team announced. Prior to his season with the Dolphins, Weaver spent four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens as a defensive line coach and eventual assistant head coach under John Harbaugh.

Falcons to interview Klint Kubiak, Anthony Weaver Saturday | Jan. 10

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons will interview Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver on Saturday.

Falcons hire Matt Ryan as President of Football | Jan. 10

As expected, Ryan was named Atlanta's president of football. The former league MVP interviewed for the role on Friday evening and was named president on Saturday morning.

Falcons complete interview with Matt Ryan for President of Football | Jan. 9 (10 p.m. ET)

The Falcons have completed an interview with Matt Ryan for their president of football position, the team announced on Friday evening. Ryan spent 14 seasons as the team's starting quarterback (2008-2021) and one additional year with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022. The former league MVP has no front office experience, but Arthur Blank trusts him from their 14 years working together.

Falcons OC Zac Robinson to interview with Bucs (for OC job) | Jan. 9

According to Tampa Bay Buccaneers beat reporter Rick Stroud, the Bucs are expected to interview Zac Robinson for their offensive coordinator vacancy. It doesn't sound like the Falcons are going to block Robinson, as they did for defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.

Completed interviews for Falcons President of Football (as of Jan. 9)

• Matt Ryan (former NFL QB)
• Ian Cunningham (Bears assistant GM)
• Brandt Tilis (Panthers EVP)
• Josh Williams (49ers exec)
• Mike Disner (Lions COO)

Falcons complete interview with Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham for President of Football | Jan. 9

The Falcons have completed their interview with Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham for their president of football role on Friday. The Falcons have already completed interviews with Brandt Tilis, Josh Williams, and Mike Disner. Former Falcons QB Matt Ryan is also expected to interview for the job (if he hasn't already). Arthur Blank said the team would only be announcing completed interviews.

Falcons complete interview with 49ers exec Josh Williams for President of Football | Jan. 9

The Falcons have completed their interview with San Francisco 49ers exec Josh Williams for their "President of Football" role. Williams has spent 13 years with the 49ers in various roles. He was considered a finalist for the Jacksonville Jaguars general manager opening in 2024.

Falcons complete interview with Panthers EVP Brandt Tilis for President of Football | Jan. 8

The Falcons have completed their second interview for the president of football position. After talking to Detroit Lions COO Mike Disner earlier in the day, the team interviewed Carolina Panthers executive vice president Brant Tilis Thursday evening. Tilis is highly regarded for helping turn around the Panthers, who just clinched their first division title in 10 years.

Falcons deny Cowboys' interview request with Jeff Ulbrich | Jan. 8

The Falcons would prefer to keep defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, as team owner Arthur Blank stated on Thursday. According to a report from ESPN's Todd Archer, Atlanta blocked the Cowboys' request to interview Ulbrich for their defensive coordinator opening. The Falcons are allowed to block any lateral move for their star coordinator.

Falcons interview Lions COO Mike Disner for President of Football | Jan. 8

The Falcons completed an interview with Detroit Lions chief operating officer Mike Disner for their president of football position, the team announced on Thursday. Disner has been with the Lions for seven seasons in various roles, including senior vice president of football operations and business administration.

Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley (request) | Jan. 8

According to a report from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Falcons were one of three teams to request an interview with Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. In his second season with the Packers, Hafley's defense allowed 21.2 points per game. Prior to taking over in 2024, he was the head coach at Boston College for four seasons (2020-2023).

Panthers EVP Brandt Tilis (request) | Jan. 6

According to multiple sources, the Falcons are expected to interview Carolina Panthers Executive Vice President Brandt Tilis for their President of Football role. Tilis was a key part of the Panthers' recent turnaround, helping the team clinch the division for the first time in 10 years. However, former Falcons QB Matt Ryan is considered the favorite for the position.

Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph (request) | Jan. 6

According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the Falcons are one of a handful of teams to request an interview with Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. The Broncos defense has been a juggernaut this season and Joseph is a highly coveted candidate around the NFL. The Titans, Cardinals, Raiders and Giants have all requested interviews with Joseph.

49ers exec Josh Williams for President of Football (request) | Jan. 6

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Falcons sent a request to interview San Francisco 49ers exec Josh Williams for their "President of Football" role. Williams has spent 13 years with the 49ers in various roles. He was a finalist for the Jacksonville Jaguars general manager job in 2024.

Matt Ryan to interview for President of Football

The Atlanta Falcons are expected to interview Matt Ryan for their president of football operations role this Thursday or Friday, according to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. While Ryan has no front office experience, he has seen a thing or two in his 15 seasons as a starting NFL quarterback. He spent 14 of those years in Atlanta, passing for 59,735 yards, 367 touchdowns and 170 interceptions while leading the team to 120 wins. Ryan is currently working as an analyst for CBS.

Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham (request)

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Falcons have requested an interview with Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham for their GM vacancy. Cunningham has helped the Bears surpass the competition in a tough NFC North division. Former Falcons center Drew Dalman signed with Chicago in free agency and had a Pro Bowl season.

Former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski (report)

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Falcons are expected to meet with the former Browns head coach. Stefanski was just fired by Cleveland on Monday after six seasons and two NFL Coach of the Year awards. A respected offensive play-caller, Stefanski could help get the Falcons get things back on track in 2026. The Browns have struggled over the last two seasons, but somebody will likely hire Stefanski soon due to the lack of experienced candidates.

Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak (request)| Jan. 5

According to multiple reports, the Falcons have requested to interview Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak for their head coaching vacancy. Kubiak is expected to be a hot name during the 2026 hiring cycle after the Seahawks' impressive 14-3 season. Seattle's balanced offensive attack finished third in points per game last season, averaging 28.4 points per contest.

Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver (request)| Jan. 5

The first reported interview request by the Falcons was for Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, who previously interviewed with the team in 2024 but did not land the job. Prior to his season with the Dolphins, Weaver spent four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens as a defensive line coach and eventual assistant head coach under John Harbaugh.

Falcons head coach candidates: 5 names to watch

• John Harbaugh (former Ravens head coach): Harbaugh is probably the most surprising name on this list. The Super Bowl-champion head coach was fired by the Baltimore Ravens after 18 NFL seasons. Harbaugh has a career record of 180-113, and is easily the most experienced coach available. While his teams have fallen short in recent seasons, the Ravens were a consistent contender for nearly two decades under Harbaugh. The former NFL Coach of the Year will have plenty of interested suitors.
• Kevin Stefanski (former Browns head coach): Stefanski is arguably the best fit for the job. The two-time NFL Coach of the Year will also be in high demand due to his experience and play-calling ability. There could be a scenario in which the Falcons hire Stefanski and keep defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich. Stefanski went 45-56 over six seasons as Cleveland's head coach. The Browns took an unusual approach in 2025, entering the season with way too many quarterbacks. Stefanski also has experience working with Kirk Cousins, which could help the team get by while Michael Penix Jr. gets fully healthy.
• Vance Joseph (Broncos defensive coordinator): The Falcons could also look at Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. The Broncos defense was arguably the best in the NFL this season, finishing with 68 sacks and allowing just 278.2 yards per game. Denver is the No. 1 seed in the AFC, and while head coach Sean Payton gets most of the credit, Joseph is the secret sauce to the Broncos' success. Atlanta has already requested an interview with Denver's defensive wiz.
• Klint Kubiak (Seahawks offensive coordinator): Kubiak is this year's top offensive coordinator candidate. Seattle's offense ranked third in points scored (28.4 per game) in 2025, helping the team clinch the top seed in the NFC playoffs. The Seahawks traded away Geno Smith before signing free-agent quarterback Sam Darnold in the offseason, and the experiment paid off. Not only did Darnold play well, but the team's balanced offensive attack set the defense up for success. It would be interesting to see what Kubiak could do with Penix in Atlanta.
• Mike LaFleur (Rams offensive coordinator): The Rams offense will always be tied to Sean McVay, but Mike LaFleur has done an excellent job over the last three seasons as the team's offensive coordinator. Los Angeles led the NFL in points per game, total yards and passing yards this season. Matthew Stafford took his game to another level, passing for 46 touchdowns to just eight interceptions this season. Penix is frequently compared to Stafford, so it would make some sense. LaFleur's brother, Matt, is the head coach of the Green Bay Packers.

Check back soon for more updates on the Falcons' head coach, general manager and president of football vacancies!