-
As the dust settles on the 2025 season, the Atlanta Falcons have wrapped up with an 8-9 record and a third-place finish in the NFC South. That positioning has now finalized the team’s opponents for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.
The Falcons will once again face their NFC South rivals twice each – home and away – while matching up against the full NFC North and AFC North divisions.
Falcons’ 2026 Opponents Revealed
Additional games come from the rotating schedule: a road trip to face the third-place NFC East finisher (Washington Commanders) and home contests against the third-place teams from the NFC West (San Francisco 49ers) and AFC West (Kansas City Chiefs).
Here’s the complete breakdown of the Falcons’ 2026 opponents, with each team’s 2025 record noted for context:
Home Opponents at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Carolina Panthers (8-9)
- New Orleans Saints (6-11)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)
- Chicago Bears (11-6)
- Detroit Lions (9-8)
- Baltimore Ravens (8-8)
- Cincinnati Bengals (6-11)
- San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
- Kansas City Chiefs (6-11)
Note: One of these home games will be designated as an international matchup, per the NFL’s award to the Falcons in December 2025. The specific opponent, location, and date will be revealed later.
Away Opponents
- at Carolina Panthers (8-9)
- at New Orleans Saints (6-11)
- at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)
- at Green Bay Packers (9-7-1)
- at Minnesota Vikings (9-8)
- at Cleveland Browns (5-12)
- at Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
- at Washington Commanders (5-12)
The full 2026 schedule, including dates, times, and prime-time slots, will be released by the NFL this spring. In the meantime, Falcons fans can start marking their calendars for what promises to be an exciting slate right here in Atlanta!
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for all the latest Falcons news, analysis, and offseason updates as the team gears up for 2026. Rise Up!
More From AtlantaFi:
-
In a league where superstars can shift the balance of power overnight, the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly positioning themselves for one of the biggest acquisitions in franchise history: Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis.
As the 2025-26 NBA trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling that the Hawks could be the frontrunners to land the nine-time All-Star, potentially reshaping the Eastern Conference and igniting a new era of Hawks basketball.
Hawks Considering Anthony Davis
Sources indicate that the Hawks have Davis high on their wish list, viewing him as a transformative piece who could anchor their defense and provide elite scoring alongside emerging talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Dyson Daniels.
With Atlanta having traded All-Star guard Trae Young—whose dynamic playstyle has been a staple but perhaps not the perfect fit for long-term contention—the team sees a potential deal for Davis as a way to pivot toward a more balanced, championship-caliber roster.
Davis, currently with the Mavericks, has been the subject of intense speculation amid Dallas’s recent skid and questions about their title window.
The 32-year-old big man, known for his dominant two-way play, is averaging impressive numbers this season despite the team’s struggles.
League insiders report that Davis is open to a move to Atlanta, where he could sign an extension and chase another ring in a fresh environment.
This willingness aligns with Atlanta’s aggressive approach, as the Hawks join the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors as expected suitors.
However, the path to acquiring Davis isn’t without hurdles.
The Hawks are reportedly not rushing a Young trade, and financial considerations loom large—pairing Davis’s max contract with Young’s would be challenging, making a Young-for-Davis swap unlikely given Dallas’s lack of interest.
Instead, Atlanta might need to orchestrate a multi-team deal, potentially involving assets like their control over the New Orleans Pelicans’ 2026 first-round pick, which has drawn interest from the Mavericks in return packages.
Critics argue that passing on Davis could be a missed opportunity for the Hawks, especially as they aim to climb back into playoff relevance after a middling start to the season.
Imagine Davis patrolling the paint at State Farm Arena, blocking shots and posterizing opponents—it’s the kind of addition that could electrify the fanbase and make Atlanta a destination for free agents once again.
As talks heat up, Hawks fans should stay tuned. If this deal materializes, it could be the spark that propels Atlanta back into the NBA’s elite. What do you think, ATL? Sound off in the comments below!
-
In a stunning development that ends an era in Hawks basketball, the Atlanta Hawks have traded four-time All-Star point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards.
In return, Atlanta receives veteran guard CJ McCollum and wing Corey Kispert, with no draft picks involved in the deal, according to multiple reports including ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Hawks Trade Trae Young To Wizards
This move, in the works for days now, marks the close of Young’s remarkable seven-plus-year run with the Hawks, where he became the face of the franchise after being drafted in 2018. The Hawks are reportedly eyeing Dallas big man Anthony Davis.
Former NBA player and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins reacted strongly to the deal, praising the Hawks’ pivot while hyping Young’s potential impact in Washington: “The Hawks made the right move. They got a young up-and-coming star in Jalen Johnson who is now their franchise player who is going to be the face of that franchise for a long time.”
Young, who led Atlanta to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021 and earned four All-Star nods plus All-NBA honors in 2022, has been central to some of the most exciting moments in recent Hawks history.
His elite scoring and playmaking — including leading the league in assists last season — made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
However, recent challenges set the stage for this split.
Basketball analyst Ciaran O’Neill gave high marks to both sides: “Wizards Grade: A. The Wizards buy low on 4x All-Star Trae Young, who will be their new franchise player and point guard of the future. He will be a great player to set up their abundance of young wings such as Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, and Keyshawn George. This deal gives Wizards fans a light at the end of the tunnel that they could potentially be a playoff team next year.”
The Hawks have struggled this season with Young in the lineup, posting a poor record and defensive issues, while the team has shown better pace, ball movement, and defensive intensity in games without him.
With significant front-office changes, a new head coach in Quin Snyder, and Young’s looming $49 million player option for next season limiting Atlanta’s flexibility, both sides saw a fresh start as the best path forward.
The trade reunites Young with Travis Schlenk — the executive who originally brought him to Atlanta and is now the Wizards’ vice president of player personnel.
Washington, deep in a rebuild with young talent and ample cap space, views Young as a high-upside addition who can orchestrate the offense, create for emerging players, and provide a spark to end their playoff drought (last appearance: 2021). The Wizards can absorb his contract without issue and potentially build around him long-term.
For the Hawks, the incoming pieces offer immediate value and future flexibility:
- CJ McCollum brings veteran leadership, reliable scoring (averaging around 18-19 points this season), and an expiring $30.6 million contract that opens up cap room and trade possibilities this summer.
- Corey Kispert adds sharpshooting from the wing on a team-friendly deal, complementing Atlanta’s young core including Jalen Johnson, Zaccharie Risacher, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
This deal allows the Hawks to pivot toward a more balanced, defense-oriented, and younger identity that has shown promise in stretches this season.
It also positions Atlanta to pursue other moves — potentially even targeting a big name like Anthony Davis — as they aim to climb back into Eastern Conference contention.
Final Word
Hawks fans, it’s the end of the Ice Trae era in Atlanta, but the beginning of something new. We’ll miss the logo threes, the clutch performances, and the energy he brought every night.
Thank you, Trae, for the memories — from that ECF run to countless highlight-reel plays.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for reactions, analysis, and what’s next for the Hawks. What do you think of the trade? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! #HawksNation #TradeSZN
-
Just days after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris, the veteran NFL coach is already generating buzz around the league as a top candidate for multiple head coaching vacancies.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Morris is scheduled to interview for the head coaching positions with the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, and Tennessee Titans.
The report indicates that Morris will conduct in-person meetings with all three teams over the next eight days, marking a quick rebound for the 49-year-old coach following his dismissal in Atlanta.
The Falcons finished the 2025 campaign with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season under the current regime. Morris, who was hired in 2024, compiled a 16-18 record over two seasons in Atlanta.
The move came as a surprise to some fans but was seen as necessary by team owner Arthur Blank, who cited the need for “new leadership” after repeated disappointing finishes despite high expectations surrounding the team.
Despite the short tenure in Atlanta, Morris remains highly regarded league-wide for his defensive expertise and leadership. He previously served as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2011 and as interim head coach for the Falcons in 2020.
More recently, he has been praised for his work as a defensive coordinator and assistant coach with several teams.
Morris was let go by the Falcons on Sunday night alongside general manager Terry Fontenot, hours after the team’s season-ending 19-17 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
The Cardinals, Giants, and Titans are all in the market for new head coaches following their own disappointing 2025 seasons.
The Giants and Titans made midseason changes earlier in the year, while the Cardinals are seeking fresh direction as well.
Morris’s quick pivot to these interviews underscores his strong reputation among NFL decision-makers.
With a packed schedule ahead, the former Falcons coach could be one of the first major hires of the 2026 coaching carousel.
Falcons fans will be watching closely as Morris looks to land his next opportunity, while the search for Atlanta’s next head coach continues with several names already emerging as potential candidates.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for the latest updates on the Falcons’ coaching search and the ongoing NFL hiring cycle.
-
In a move that provides immediate salary cap relief and sets a clear timeline for the future, the Atlanta Falcons and veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins have agreed to modify the final two years of his contract, according to ESPN’s Field Yates.
The restructuring significantly reduces Cousins’ 2026 base salary from $35 million (non-guaranteed) to just $2.1 million, shifting the $32.9 million difference to increase his 2027 compensation.
Key Decision Looms by March 13 for Cousins, Falcons
This adjustment also adds a $67.9 million vesting guarantee for the 2027 season that activates on March 13—the third day of the 2026 NFL league year.
As a result, the Falcons must decide on Cousins’ future with the team well before that date, as it’s highly unlikely any organization (including Atlanta) would absorb such a massive guarantee.
This agreement offers upside for both parties. For the Falcons, the immediate drop in Cousins’ cap hit creates much-needed flexibility as the team navigates a major organizational overhaul following the recent departures of head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.
Atlanta now has more room to maneuver in free agency and the draft while searching for new leadership to guide the franchise forward.
For Cousins, the 37-year-old signal-caller, the modification clarifies his status: he is poised to become a free agent by March 13 at the latest.
This timeline gives him and the broader NFL market certainty, allowing potential suitors to plan accordingly without the overhang of an enormous 2027 commitment.
Importantly, the restructure does not impact any previously guaranteed money owed to Cousins, and it doesn’t preclude a return to Atlanta.
The veteran, who expressed after the Falcons’ season-ending win over the New Orleans Saints that he would “love” to stay in Atlanta, could still negotiate a new deal with the incoming regime if both sides align on vision and role.
High Hopes When Cousins Arrived in Atlanta
Cousins joined the Falcons ahead of the 2024 season on a four-year, $180 million contract, bringing veteran stability to the quarterback room. After a full season as starter in 2024, he transitioned to a backup role in 2025 behind first-round pick Michael Penix Jr.
An injury to Penix opened the door for Cousins to start the final seven games, where he went 5-3 while throwing 10 touchdowns against five interceptions in 10 total appearances (eight starts).
With Penix expected to reclaim the starting job in 2026 (barring setbacks in his recovery from a season-ending knee injury), the Falcons appear positioned to move forward with the younger quarterback long-term.
A post-June 1 release designation remains a likely outcome if no extension materializes, allowing Atlanta to spread any remaining dead cap money across 2026 and 2027 while maximizing near-term flexibility.
As the Falcons embark on their search for a new general manager and head coach, this contract tweak provides a clean slate at the game’s most important position.
Whether Cousins finishes his career in Atlanta or begins a new chapter elsewhere, today’s agreement represents a pragmatic step forward for all involved.
Final Word
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for the latest updates on the Falcons’ offseason moves, coaching search, and what comes next for the quarterback position. #RiseUp
-
One of the most striking landmarks in the Southeast is Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a towering structure that combines modern materials like glass, steel, and concrete with dynamic shapes and open spaces.
From the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl to pro football and soccer, this shining jewel of downtown Atlanta is used all around the year. Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues to draw crowds just to witness the sheer spectacle of it all. Not only was the venue the home of Super Bowl LIII, but it has hosted world-class events since it opened.
In this article, we will tell you everything to know about state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Everything You Need To Know About Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Mercedes-Benz Stadium officially opened on August 26, 2017 with a Falcons preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. When it opened, the venue was crazy cool, but the retractable roof system was inoperable at the time.
Everything you need to know about Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium
The stadium is run by AMB Group,a consortium that is under the tutelage of Blank, owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, the pro soccer club.Speaking of the NFL team, the stadium was built to replace the Georgia Dome, the Falcons’ home stadium from 1992 until 2016.
Here’s what to know about the coolest features at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
1. When Was Mercedes-Benz Stadium Built?
The stadium was conceptualized in 2014 when city officials and billionaire Arthur Blank agreed on plans for a new sports venue. The stadium began construction in 2017 and opened up a year later.
2. How Much Did Mercedes-Benz Stadium Cost?
Mercedes-Benz Stadium cost $1.6 billion to build. The price tag raised some brows not only around Atlanta, but across the country.
Even with its high cost, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is not the most expansive stadium in the United States. That distinction belongs to two Western structures. In California, Los Angeles Stadium costs $2.66 billion. No. 2 on the list is Las Vegas Raiders Stadium, which comes in at $2.4 billion.
3. Does Mercedes-Benz Stadium Have A Retractable Roof?
The retractable roof of Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the venue’s most famous features. When the stadium opened to the public, the roof didn’t retract, but they have since fixed it.
The eight-panel retractable roof that resembled a pinwheel, but what few observers notice is that the eight triangular translucent panels create the illusion of a bird’s wings extended when it’s opened.
The stadium features a retractable roof with a unique “pinwheel” design. The roof is made of eight movable panels that open and close like the petals of a flower. This is a visually striking design and provides a cool, flexible experience for both outdoor and indoor events.
When it’s fully opened, the roof provides a wide-open view of the sky and the Atlanta skyline, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy features of the stadium.
4. Mercedes-Benz Stadium Has The Lowest Prices Of Any Major Sports Venue
When Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened in fall 2017, one of the main selling points was the fact that its concessions prices were super low. Those low prices extend to all events at the stadium, from concerts to Atlanta United games, Falcons games and more.
In 2025, food prices at the stadium dropped even lower. Stadium brass also said that a low “domestically priced” craft beer would go on sale.
5. MercBenz Has The World’s Largest Video Board
The stadium has the claim to fame as having the largest video board in the world. This is the largest LED video display on Earth. It technological masterpiece was designed, manufactured and installed by Daktronics of Brookings, South Dakota. There are also more than 82,500 square feet of video displays around the stadium.
Last Words
Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium has become top gem in the sports world.
It’s a true architectural masterpiece and has been recognized for its innovation and beauty.Design flexibility allows the stadium to be easily adapted for different events, meaning that every game or concert feels unique in the way it’s experienced.
Since fall 2017, MercBenz has hosted several major sports events, including the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, the SEC Championship Game and the College Football National Championship Game. This is the first Super Bowl, but not the last. The stadium is booked for events through the next few years, including concerts like Beyonce, Jay Z and more.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Other Articles from AtlantaFi.com
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
Here Are The Best New Atlanta
-
In a development that could signal the end of an era for the Atlanta Hawks, four-time All-Star guard Trae Young and his representatives are actively working with the franchise to explore trade options, sources told ESPN on Monday.
Young’s agents — Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison, and Austin Brown of CAA — have engaged in positive and collaborative discussions with Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh over the past week, aiming to find a mutually agreeable resolution, according to the report from ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Trae Young, Hawks in Talks Before Trade Deadline
The 27-year-old Young, drafted by Atlanta in 2018 after a draft-night trade with Dallas, has been the cornerstone of the franchise for nearly eight seasons.
He holds the Hawks’ all-time records for 3-pointers made and assists, and led the team to three postseason appearances, including a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021.
However, the relationship appears to have reached a turning point. The Hawks notably declined to offer Young a contract extension last summer, fueling speculation about his long-term future in Atlanta.
This season has added to the uncertainty: Young has been limited to just 10 games due to leg injuries, with the Hawks posting a 2-8 record in those contests compared to 15-12 without him. Opponents have scored nearly 10 fewer points per game when Young sits, per ESPN Research.
Emerging talents like forward Jalen Johnson — who is averaging impressive numbers this season — and recent additions such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker have shifted the team’s dynamics, prompting questions about whether Atlanta is ready to build around a new core.
While no specific trade destinations have been confirmed by the Hawks or Young’s camp, early rumors have linked potential suitors, including discussions involving teams like the Washington Wizards.
The NBA trade deadline is February 5, leaving just a month for negotiations to intensify.
Hawks fans have mixed emotions about the news, with Young’s electrifying playstyle — including his deep range and playmaking wizardry — making him a beloved figure at State Farm Arena.
Yet, the team’s struggles to build sustained contention around him have led many to wonder if a fresh start could benefit both sides.
The Hawks organization has not commented publicly on the report as of Monday evening. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Journal for updates as this story develops.
-
Less than 24 hours after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, Morris is already drawing interest from another NFL team.
According to ESPN’s Peter Schrager, the Tennessee Titans plan to interview the former Falcons coach for their vacant head coaching position later this week.
The news comes as the NFL’s coaching carousel spins into high gear following “Black Monday.”
The Falcons fired Morris on Sunday night despite the team closing the 2025 season with a four-game winning streak and an 8-9 record – matching the mark from his first season in 2024.
Over two years at the helm in Atlanta, Morris compiled a 16-18 record but failed to reach the playoffs, prompting owner Arthur Blank to seek new leadership.
Morris, 49, is no stranger to head coaching opportunities. He previously served as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ head coach from 2009-2011 and as the Falcons’ interim coach in 2020 (4-7 record).
His most notable success came as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2021.
For Falcons fans, the quick interest in Morris from Tennessee may come as a mixed bag.
While his tenure here ended without postseason success, Morris was widely respected in the locker room for his player-friendly approach and ability to foster team unity.
Players Voiced Support for Morris
Players like Jessie Bates III and Bijan Robinson publicly supported him late in the season, crediting his leadership for the late surge.
Falcons Owner Sought a Change
On NFL.com, Kevin Patra noted the futility of the hot streak: “A four-game winning streak to end the season couldn’t save the jobs of Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.”
The Falcoholic’s Dave Choate cited insiders on the premeditated nature: “Per NFL insiders Ollie Connolly and Josina Anderson… Atlanta has ‘had feelers’ out to potential candidates for weeks now and were going to fire both Morris and Fontenot regardless of the season’s end result.”
The Titans, who fired Brian Callahan earlier in the 2025 season and finished with another disappointing campaign, are casting a wide net in their search.
Reports indicate they are also eyeing recently fired coaches like Kevin Stefanski (Cleveland Browns) and several high-profile coordinators.
Morris is expected to draw interest from multiple teams for both head coaching and defensive coordinator roles, given his track record on defense and reputation as a strong communicator.
As the Falcons turn the page and begin their own search for a new head coach and GM – with names like Kevin Stefanski already linked – it’s clear Morris won’t be out of work for long.
We’ll keep you updated on any further developments involving former Falcons staff as the offseason unfolds.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for full coverage of the coaching search and all things Dirty Birds. Rise Up!
-
In a move that signals a significant shift in the Atlanta Falcons’ front office structure, the team is set to introduce a new president of football operations role, with former star quarterback Matt Ryan emerging as the frontrunner for the position.
Ryan is set to interview this weekend — Friday or Saturday, signaliing he and the organization’s willingness to get a deal done quickly.
This development, widely reported by football insiders including Adam Shefter, comes as longtime executive Rich McKay steps away from his CEO duties with the Falcons, transitioning to a broader role within owner Arthur Blank’s business empire.
It also occurs one day after Blank fired Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot.
Falcons Set To Hire Matt Ryan in Front Office
Sources close to the organization indicate that the new president of football operations will hold primary decision-making authority over all team-related matters, including personnel, coaching, and strategy. This restructuring aims to streamline football decisions and inject fresh leadership into a franchise looking to build on recent progress under head coach Morris.
Ryan, who spent 14 seasons as the Falcons’ quarterback from 2008 to 2021, is widely regarded as one of the most beloved figures in team history.
Although it was first reported that Ryan may wish to hold onto his NFL commentator job for TV, it looks like he is willing to let it go and give the Falcons his all.
The 2016 NFL MVP led Atlanta to a Super Bowl appearance and holds numerous franchise records, including passing yards and touchdowns.
After retiring following a stint with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, Ryan has stayed connected to the game through broadcasting and philanthropy, often expressing his deep ties to the Atlanta community.”Matt Ryan embodies the Falcons’ spirit—resilient, intelligent, and deeply committed to winning,” said a team insider who spoke on condition of anonymity. “His football acumen and understanding of the organization’s culture make him an ideal candidate to guide the team forward.”
McKay, who has been with the Falcons since 2003 and served as CEO since 2011, will no longer oversee day-to-day football operations. Instead, he will focus on Arthur Blank’s expansive portfolio, which includes AMB Sports and Entertainment, encompassing the Falcons, Atlanta United FC, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
McKay’s tenure has been marked by key achievements, such as the construction of the state-of-the-art stadium and navigating the team through multiple rebuilds.
“Rich has been instrumental in shaping the Falcons into a first-class organization,” Blank said in a statement released earlier today. “His expertise will continue to benefit our entire family of businesses as we evolve.”
The creation of this new position reflects a growing trend in the NFL, where teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs have empowered dedicated football executives to handle on-field decisions separately from business operations.
For the Falcons, who finished the 2025 season with a 8-9 record but missed the playoffs, this could provide the stability needed to contend in the competitive NFC South.
Final Word
Fans have already taken to social media to express excitement about Ryan’s potential return. “Matty Ice back in the building? That’s the spark we need!” one supporter posted on social media.
An official announcement is expected in the coming days, with the team holding a press conference at Flowery Branch.
As the Falcons prepare for the offseason, including free agency and the NFL Draft, this leadership change could be the catalyst for a new era of success in Atlanta.Stay tuned to Atlanta Pro Football Insider for updates on this story and all things Falcons.
-
In a move signaling a fresh start for the franchise, the Atlanta Falcons announced late Sunday that searches for a new head coach and general manager will commence immediately
This comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025 season, where the team finished with a sub-.500 record and missed the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year.
Falcons Begin Search for New Coach, GM
The Falcons’ front office has been under scrutiny since the abrupt firing of former GM Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris after Sunday’s win over the New Orleans Saints.
Team owner Arthur Blank and president Rich McKay emphasized the urgency of the process in a press release, stating that the organization is committed to finding the right leaders to guide the Falcons back to contention in the NFC South.
“We are excited to begin this journey and build a winning culture that our fans deserve,” Blank said.
To aid in the head coach search, the Falcons have enlisted the expertise of ZRG Partners, a global executive search firm known for its work in sports and entertainment.
ZRG has previously assisted in high-profile NFL hires, bringing a data-driven approach to identifying top coaching talent.
For the general manager position, the team will partner with Sportsology Group, a consultancy specializing in sports executive searches.
Sportsology has a track record of helping franchises like the New York Giants and Washington Commanders in similar roles, focusing on strategic organizational builds.
No specific timeline has been established for completing either search, allowing the Falcons flexibility to thoroughly evaluate candidates.
However, the processes will run concurrently, enabling potential synergies between the new coach and GM hires. This parallel approach could expedite the overall rebuild, as the two roles often intersect in player personnel decisions and team vision.
Final Word
Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that these searches will yield innovative leaders capable of maximizing the talents of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and a young core of players.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on potential candidates, interviews, and all things Falcons as this story develops. What do you think of the hires? Sound off in the comments below!
