The Falcons’ GM Search: A Quiet Shuffle with Big Stakes

Hook: The Atlanta Falcons are playing the long game — and the latest from NFL insider Tom Pelissero suggests that what looks like a whisper of interviews today could be the blueprint for the franchise’s next decade.

The short version: the Falcons are methodically interviewing GM candidates while Matt Ryan’s new role atop football operations helps shape the process. Tom Pelissero’s recent update confirms interviews are underway and underscores that Atlanta is being deliberate about pairing a general manager with the new leadership structure.

Where we are and why it matters

• The Falcons parted ways with Terry Fontenot after the 2025 season, creating one of the NFL’s most consequential front-office openings.
• Matt Ryan — the former franchise quarterback — is expected to be installed as president of football operations (or head of football operations), which shifts the power dynamic and makes the GM hire as much about chemistry as it is about résumé.
• The team is interviewing candidates publicly reported (and confirmed by team communications) as part of a process led by Ryan and aided by executive search firms.

Why this matters:

• A GM hires coaches, builds the roster and controls the draft strategy; with Ryan overseeing football operations, the GM will need to complement Ryan’s vision rather than clash with it.
• The Falcons already made a headline coaching hire (Kevin Stefanski), so the GM decision is the next major lever that will determine roster construction and the team’s trajectory.

What Pelissero reported

• Tom Pelissero provided a concise update on NFL Network’s “The Insiders”: the Falcons’ interview process for GM candidates is active and moving forward. The coverage emphasized process and fit over a quick hire. (nfl.com)

• Local reporting from the Falcons confirmed interviews with at least one candidate (Josh Williams) and framed the search as being guided by Matt Ryan and supported by external search partners. That article highlights the organization’s stated focus on working relationships and alignment as priorities. (atlantafalcons.com)

• Outside coverage has linked names into the process (reports noting interviews or interest in experienced executives such as Joe Douglas in the broader media cycle), indicating Atlanta is considering both established front-office figures and newer executives. (nypost.com)

The real question: fit over flash

• The Falcons don’t need a headline-grabbing hire as much as a complementary partner for Ryan and Stefanski.

• With Stefanski already in place as head coach, the GM must:

  1. Build synergy with Stefanski’s schematic needs (e.g., offensive priorities, roster flexibility).
  2. Share or be adaptable to Ryan’s strategic vision for the roster and organizational culture.
  3. Execute drafts and free-agent strategy that can accelerate competitiveness without destabilizing the cap or long-term plan.

• That’s why Pelissero’s emphasis on process — interviews, vetting, and fit — is worth noting. The team appears to prefer a careful selection that reduces friction at the top of the organization.

Candidates and context to watch

• Expect the Falcons to consider:

  • Veterans who’ve previously run or assisted in running a roster (they bring proven processes).
  • Talent evaluators who can identify immediate contributors and long-term building blocks in the draft.
  • Executives who are comfortable in a shared-power structure with a president of football operations (that’s a key filter now).

• Publicly named interviewees (like Josh Williams) and reported names in the media signal Atlanta is casting a wide net — from league-tested GMs to sharp evaluators who can execute a Stefanski-friendly roster plan. (atlantafalcons.com)

What to expect next

• More interviews and vetting steps announced in short order (weeks, not months).
• A hire that will be framed publicly around “fit” — expect statements about alignment with Matt Ryan and Kevin Stefanski.
• Immediate focus post-hire on roster evaluation, draft board alignment, and free-agent strategy for the coming offseason.

Key points to watch:

• How closely the GM’s public philosophy matches Stefanski’s scheme.
• Whether the Falcons clearly define the president/GM boundaries in public communications.
• Any quick staff moves that hint at the new GM’s priorities (personnel staff hires, scouting structure changes).

My take

Atlanta seems to be learning the lesson many franchises have learned the hard way: putting personalities in compatible seats matters as much as pedigree. Tom Pelissero’s update — short and process-driven — is a signal the Falcons want this right rather than fast. With Matt Ryan now in a leadership role and Stefanski coaching, the GM will likely be judged on how well they knit those pieces together into a coherent, sustainable plan.

If Atlanta lands someone who can both evaluate talent and collaborate at the executive level, this search could be the subtle turning point the franchise needs. If not, tensions at the top could blunt the potential Stefanski brings on the field.

Sources

• Pelissero: Matt Ryan expected to be Falcons' new president of football operations | NFL.com
  https://www.nfl.com/videos/pelissero-matt-ryan-expected-to-be-falcons-new-president-of-football-operations-the-insiders

• Pelissero provides update on Atlanta Falcons general manager search | Yahoo Sports (video reposting of NFL segment)
  https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/video/pelissero-provides-atlanta-falcons-general-011440226.html

• Falcons complete interview with Josh Williams for general manager | AtlantaFalcons.com
  https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/josh-williams-interview-general-manager

• Joe Douglas interviews for Falcons GM role two years after Jets' firing | New York Post
  https://nypost.com/2026/01/23/sports/joe-douglas-interviews-for-falcons-gm-role-two-years-after-jets-firing

The Buccaneers have found their next offensive coordinator

A familiar face is sliding into the Bucs’ offensive driver’s seat. On January 22, 2026, Tampa Bay moved to finalize a deal to hire Zac Robinson as their new offensive coordinator — a hire that reconnects a coach known for Sean McVay-style concepts with a quarterback (Baker Mayfield) he’s worked with before. This isn’t just another line on a staff sheet; it’s a hinge point for an offense that sputtered in 2025 and is hungry to get back to the efficiency and explosiveness it showed in 2024.

Why this matters right now

• The Buccaneers’ offense dipped from top-5 levels in 2024 to a middle-of-the-pack unit in 2025, prompting a staff reset under head coach Todd Bowles.
• Zac Robinson brings recent play-calling experience (Atlanta Falcons OC, 2024–25) and a background inside the Rams’ offense, the type of scheming many teams covet for quick, versatile passing attacks.
• Baker Mayfield and Robinson have previous working history from the Rams in 2022 — that familiarity could accelerate scheme fit and reduce the friction that often comes with new coordinators.

Quick takeaways

• Robinson is a play-caller with an offensive pedigree linked to Sean McVay’s system and a mixed recent resume in Atlanta (strong total-yard seasons in 2024, regression in 2025).
• Tampa Bay is prioritizing a coordinator who can tailor the scheme to current personnel — Mayfield, Chris Godwin, a sturdy offensive line, and young weapons like Emeka Egbuka and Bucky Irving.
• This is Tampa’s fifth OC in five seasons, highlighting instability at the position; success will depend on clear roles, play-calling consistency, and injury luck.

What Zac Robinson brings (and what to watch)

• Familiar system influences: Robinson’s rise came through Los Angeles under Sean McVay’s coaching staff. Expect spacing, pre-snap motion, and concept-based passing that looks to create easy reads for the QB and leverage matchups.
• Player-first approach: In Atlanta he emphasized tailoring looks to Bijan Robinson’s strengths and maximizing playmakers. In Tampa, that means designing to Baker Mayfield’s strengths — short-to-intermediate timing, quick reads, rollouts and play-action to buy space for receivers.
• Play-calling history: Robinson has called plays in the NFL; that experience is a double-edged sword. When the Falcons clicked, the offense performed well (2024 total yards top-10). When it didn’t, efficiency and scoring slipped (2025). The key for the Bucs will be whether Robinson can avoid the pitfalls that led to that inconsistency.
• Chemistry with Mayfield: The prior Rams connection matters. A coordinator-quarterback rapport can shave weeks off installation, help in-game adjustments, and make the offense more resilient when the playbook needs to be simplified on the fly.

The challenges ahead

• Stability problem: Robinson becomes the fifth offensive coordinator the Buccaneers have hired in five seasons. That revolving door makes continuity — for both players and scheme — difficult.
• Personnel realities: Mike Evans enters free agency status and the receiving corps has young talent but questions remain about consistent separation and health. Robinson must build an identity that fits who’s actually on the field.
• Expectations vs. reality: Tampa Bay’s offense needs a bounce-back, but one coordinator does not fix roster gaps or injuries. Measurable improvement will likely hinge on play-caller freedom, player health, and front-office support in the offseason.

How this could change the Bucs’ offseason and 2026 outlook

• Scheme tweaks over overhaul: Expect Robinson to lean into what worked in 2024 — more emphasis on quick passing game, creative motion, and establishing the run — while installing wrinkles from his Falcons/Rams background.
• Quarterback-centric planning: With Robinson’s prior work with Mayfield, the Bucs might prioritize short-window timing routes, rollouts, and play-action to protect the QB and generate big-play opportunities.
• Coaching staff composition: Robinson’s hire signals Tampa wants an offensive identity that’s modern and adaptable. Look for staff moves (position coaches, pass-game assistants) that mirror that vision.

My take

This hire makes sense on paper: a young, system-savvy play-caller who already knows Baker Mayfield’s tendencies and has experience shaping an NFL offense. The biggest questions aren’t about Robinson’s schematic toolbox — they’re about context. Will the Bucs give him a consistent role and the roster support he needs? Can he avoid repeating the inconsistency that dogged his Falcons tenure? If the front office commits to continuity and the offense stays healthy, Robinson’s familiarity and adaptable approach could spark the kind of rebound Tampa Bay wants. If not, this could be another short chapter in the Bucs’ OC carousel.

Sources

• Buccaneers sign Zac Robinson as Bucs' offensive coordinator — Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
  https://www.buccaneers.com/news/zac-robinson-hired-bucs-offensive-coordinator

• Sources: Buccaneers finalizing deal with Zac Robinson as OC — ESPN (report via Adam Schefter).
  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47691110/sources-buccaneers-finalizing-deal-zac-robinson-oc

• Buccaneers finalizing deal to hire Zac Robinson as their offensive coordinator — NBC Sports.
  https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/buccaneers-finalizing-deal-to-hire-zac-robinson-as-their-offensive-coordinator

• Buccaneers hire former Falcons OC Zac Robinson as new offensive coordinator — NFL.com.
  https://www.nfl.com/news/buccaneers-hire-zac-robinson-as-new-offensive-coordinator

When continuity meets change: Why the Falcons kept Jeff Ulbrich after hiring Kevin Stefanski

A crisp weekend in Atlanta brought big headlines: Kevin Stefanski was introduced as the Falcons’ new head coach on January 17, 2026 — and two days later the franchise quietly made another important decision. Jeff Ulbrich, the architect behind Atlanta’s sudden pass-rush renaissance, will stay on as defensive coordinator under Stefanski on a new three‑year deal. The pairing is one part bold reset and one part deliberate continuity — and that mix could define the next chapter for the Falcons. (atlantafalcons.com)

Why this matters right now

• The Falcons hired Kevin Stefanski as head coach on January 17, 2026, handing him the keys to a roster with clear weapons but lingering questions at quarterback and continuity questions on staff. (atlantafalcons.com)
• Ulbrich’s defense produced a franchise‑record 57 sacks in 2025 and improved Atlanta’s pass rush from a chronic weakness into a clear strength — a turnaround that owner Arthur Blank and new leadership wanted to preserve. Keeping Ulbrich preserves momentum on that side of the ball. (espn.com)
• Stefanski comes from an offensive, run‑centric background; retaining Ulbrich signals a two‑pronged approach: refresh the offense while keeping the defensive foundation intact. (atlantafalcons.com)

The narrative at play

Think of the Falcons’ offseason so far as a chess move followed by a safety blanket. Atlanta hired a coach known for play‑calling discipline, offensive structure and quarterback management. Stefanski’s résumé includes two AP Coach of the Year awards and sustained emphasis on a physical rushing attack. That’s the chess move — a clear directional choice for the offense and culture. (atlantafalcons.com)

Keeping Jeff Ulbrich is the safety blanket. Ulbrich’s 2025 defense flipped a stubborn team weakness into a real asset: younger edge rushers like James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker broke out, and the unit posted numbers that made opponents respect Atlanta’s ability to pressure quarterbacks. Owner and new president-level leadership preferred not to hit the reset button on a defense that finally looked like it had identity and upward trajectory. (espn.com)

What this could mean on the field

• Defensive identity stays: With Ulbrich in place, expect the Falcons to keep aggressive pass-rush concepts and continue prioritizing edge development. That helps simplify defensive planning while Stefanski installs his offensive concepts. (espn.com)
• Offense refresh under Stefanski: Stefanski will likely bring trusted assistants and an emphasis on a strong rushing foundation and clean QB mechanics; how he meshes with Atlanta’s quarterback situation (Kirk Cousins vs. Michael Penix Jr. recovery timeline) will be a key storyline. (atlantafalcons.com)
• Balance of power in the building: Retaining Ulbrich — with a new three‑year contract reported — suggests owner and president want collaboration, not wholesale staff purge. That can speed up roster construction and offseason program planning. (nbcsports.com)

Things to watch this offseason

• Which Stefanski assistants follow him to Atlanta, and how their offensive philosophy integrates with the existing roster and Bijan Robinson’s skill set. (atlantafalcons.com)
• How the Falcons manage the QB timeline for Michael Penix Jr.’s recovery versus a potential veteran plan — Stefanski’s past experience with rotating quarterbacks is relevant context. (theguardian.com)
• Whether Ulbrich’s defensive scheme remains the same or is adapted to better complement Stefanski’s offensive tempo and personnel demands. (espn.com)

Notes on fit and risk

• The upside: Continuity on defense buys Stefanski breathing room to implement offensive systems without sacrificing recent defensive gains. Young pass-rushers already on the roster give Ulbrich real tools to build with. (espn.com)
• The risk: If Stefanski and Ulbrich’s philosophies clash in practice planning, game planning, or personnel priorities — especially in how draft/FA resources are allocated between offense and defense — the “best of both worlds” approach could devolve into mixed messaging. Alignment up front will be essential. (atlantafalcons.com)

My take

This move reads as savvy and pragmatic. The Falcons could have made a clean sweep and risked losing the defensive momentum that finally emerged in 2025. Instead, they paired a proven offensive-minded head coach with the defensive architect who gave them a sudden identity. Success won’t be automatic — quarterback clarity and staff alignment are the heavy lifts — but the franchise has at least given itself a real shot at stabilizing both sides of the ball. If Stefanski and Ulbrich can coordinate a coherent plan that values complementary strengths, the Falcons might be building toward consistency instead of another reboot.

Final thoughts

Coaching changes are often loud and disruptive. The quiet, deliberate retention of Jeff Ulbrich after hiring Kevin Stefanski suggests Atlanta’s leadership prefers a hybrid approach: change where they need it most (offense/head coach) and continuity where it actually worked (defense). That’s a promising formula — provided everyone is rowing the same way.

Sources

• Atlanta Falcons — Atlanta Falcons name Kevin Stefanski head coach. https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/atlanta-falcons-name-kevin-stefanski-head-coach. (atlantafalcons.com)

• NFL.com — Jeff Ulbrich staying on as Falcons defensive coordinator. https://www.nfl.com/news/jeff-ulbrich-staying-on-as-falcons-defensive-coordinator. (nfl.com)

• ESPN — Falcons retaining DC Jeff Ulbrich under coach Kevin Stefanski. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47661016/falcons-retaining-dc-jeff-ulbrich-head-coach-kevin-stefanski. (espn.com)

• The Washington Post / AP — Improved pass rush helps Falcons defensive coordinator Ulbrich stay on new coach Stefanski's staff. https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nfl/2026/01/19/falcons-ulbrich-stefanski/. (washingtonpost.com)

• NBC Sports — Falcons retain Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinator. https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/falcons-retain-jeff-ulbrich-as-defensive-coordinator. (nbcsports.com)

Mike McDaniel: The Coaching Hot Potato Everyone’s Talking About

The NFL coaching carousel just got a fresh jolt. Mike McDaniel — the creative offensive mind who helmed the Miami Dolphins for four seasons — is suddenly the candidate every team with a vacancy wants to meet. Fired by Miami on January 8, 2026, McDaniel has already been linked to interviews with the Browns, Ravens, Titans, Falcons and even a potential offensive coordinator spot with the Detroit Lions. The optics: teams coveting offensive creativity. The reality: a coach whose résumé is equal parts innovation and unfinished business. (bleacherreport.com)

Why this feels different

• McDaniel isn't a traditional retread. He built a distinct offensive identity in Miami that produced top‑of‑the‑league yardage in 2022–23 and turned heads for scheme creativity. That track record makes him attractive to clubs that have offensive talent but lack the scheme or culture to unlock it. (bleacherreport.com)
• He’s young (early 40s), adaptable and already proven in pressurized NFL settings — traits teams covet when they want to modernize quickly rather than retool for multiple seasons. (si.com)
• But there’s friction: his Dolphins tenure ended after back‑to‑back non‑playoff seasons and a 7–10 finish this past year, raising questions about in‑game adjustments, roster construction and long‑term developmental outcomes. That mixed legacy explains both the demand and the caution. (foxsports.com)

The suitors and the fit — quick takes

• Cleveland Browns

  • Why it makes sense: Cleveland’s defense remained elite while the offense cratered. The Browns have put out fires at QB and scored just 16.4 points per game in 2025; they need an offensive architect. McDaniel’s schematic ingenuity could revive a talented but underperforming offense. (bleacherreport.com)
  • What to watch: Can he manage QB carousel issues and coach for a roster built more around defensive power than offensive style fits? (bleacherreport.com)

• Baltimore Ravens

  • Why it makes sense: The Ravens prize creativity and physical play; pairing McDaniel with Baltimore’s offensive pieces could produce something dynamic. But Baltimore also demands in‑game control and toughness on both sides of the ball. (bleacherreport.com)
  • What to watch: Organizational fit — Harbaugh‑era standards and culture could clash with a more free‑wheeling offensive guru.

• Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons

  • Why it makes sense: Both teams need offensive reinvention and could offer control plus young talent that benefits from inventive scheming. Interviews are opportunities to sell vision. (bleacherreport.com)

• Detroit Lions (offensive coordinator possibility)

  • Why it makes sense: If teams hesitate to hand him a full HC role right away, a top OC job offers a lower‑risk way to harness McDaniel’s creativity. The Lions reportedly requested such an interview. (bleacherreport.com)

The broader coaching-market story

The ripple effects of Miami’s decision go beyond McDaniel. Miami’s own vacancy has prompted speculation about who could replace him, from internal candidates to experienced names, and underscores how quickly coaching philosophies shift across the league when a head coach with a distinct identity becomes available. Teams juggling talent, quarterback questions and front‑office direction are scanning for someone who can provide both schematic clarity and cultural steadiness. (foxsports.com)

Why some teams will hesitate

• Track record vs. recent results: McDaniel’s early Miami seasons were offensive showpieces, but the last two years’ underperformance gives hiring committees pause. Experienced GMs often ask whether a coach’s early success is repeatable under changing personnel and heightened defensive planning. (si.com)
• Organizational stability: Teams with stable front offices may prefer a coach with proven in‑season adjustment history and playoff results. McDaniel’s playoff résumé is limited. (si.com)
• Fit with roster and QB: A lot hinges on quarterback fit. Some franchises could be excited by McDaniel’s creativity; others will balk if their roster doesn’t match his offensive philosophy.

What McDaniel brings to the table

• Creative play design and scheme versatility that can unlock mismatches and push pace. (si.com)
• A modern offensive mindset that appeals to teams aiming to keep pace with league trends. (si.com)
• Youthful energy and a fresh perspective that can reframe underperforming offenses quickly — if paired with the right personnel and stable front office. (si.com)

A few scenarios to watch

• Short term: McDaniel lands multiple interviews (already reported), gauges fit and either accepts a high‑upside HC role or chooses an OC post in a stable environment. (bleacherreport.com)
• Medium term: If hired as HC, success will depend on quarterback play and roster alignment with his scheme; early signs will be offensive efficiency and third‑down production. (si.com)
• Long term: A win here reestablishes him as a top modern coach; another mediocre stint pushes him into coordinator territory or the “what‑went‑wrong” coaching narratives.

What to watch next (dates and signals)

• Interview scheduling and team statements: early January interviews were reported; monitor official team press releases and NFL Network reports for confirmed interview dates and any hires. (Reported interviews occurred the week of Jan. 12, 2026.) (bleacherreport.com)
• How teams describe their HC search priorities: language about culture, QB development, and offensive identity will reveal whether McDaniel is a genuine fit. (foxsports.com)

Final thoughts

Mike McDaniel’s availability is exactly the kind of high‑variance event that makes NFL offseason windows feel electric. He’s an offensive-minded coach with demonstrable strengths and some nagging questions about recent results. For teams that prioritize modern scheming and can align personnel quickly, McDaniel could be a transformative hire. For others, he’s a tantalizing risk. Either way, the next few weeks of interviews will tell us whether clubs value immediate innovation or steadier hands at the helm.

Sources

• New Mike McDaniel Rumors on Browns, Ravens and More NFL HC Interviews After Dolphins Firing — Bleacher Report.
  https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25355336-new-mike-mcdaniel-rumors-browns-nfl-hc-interviews-after-dolphins-firing

• Mike McDaniel Gets Second Head Coach Interview After Dolphins Firing — Sports Illustrated.
  https://www.si.com/nfl/mike-mcdaniel-gets-second-head-coach-interview-after-dolphins-firing

• After Mike McDaniel's firing, the Dolphins could pursue John Harbaugh or another experienced coach — Fox Sports (Associated Press).
  https://www.foxsports.com/articles/nfl/after-mike-mcdaniels-firing-the-dolphins-could-pursue-john-harbaugh-or-another-experienced-coach

• Dolphins rumors: Miami did not call John Harbaugh before firing Mike McDaniel — Yahoo Sports.
  https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/dolphins-rumors-miami-did-not-162753956.html

Commanders Face Challenges Ahead of Key Matchup Against Falcons

As the excitement builds for the Washington Commanders’ upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons, some clouds loom over the team’s preparations. With both starting quarterback Jayden Daniels and star receiver Terry McLaurin absent from the practice field, fans are left wondering how this will impact their chances of securing a much-needed victory.

The Commanders have had a tumultuous season, and the absence of two key players raises concerns about their ability to compete effectively on Sunday. Daniels, who has shown flashes of brilliance since taking the reins, is crucial for orchestrating the offense. Meanwhile, McLaurin, the team’s No. 1 wideout, is not only a reliable target but also a leader on and off the field. So, what does this mean for the Commanders moving forward?

Context: A Season of Ups and Downs

The Commanders entered this season with high hopes, aiming to build on last year’s progress. However, injuries and inconsistent performances have plagued the team, leading to a rocky start. Daniels, a rookie who has been thrust into the spotlight, has faced his fair share of challenges, but his dual-threat capability has injected energy into the offense. On the other hand, McLaurin’s veteran presence and playmaking ability have been a constant source of stability, making his absence even more pronounced.

The matchup against the Falcons isn’t just another game; it’s a pivotal moment for the Commanders. With both teams vying for playoff positioning, every win counts. Without their starting quarterback and top receiver, Washington will need to dig deep and find creative solutions to stay competitive.

Key Takeaways

– Injury Impact: The absence of Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin significantly weakens the Commanders’ offense, forcing the team to rely on backups. – Next Man Up: Look for players like backup quarterback and emerging wideouts to step up and fill the void left by Daniels and McLaurin. – Coaching Strategy: Head Coach Ron Rivera will need to adapt his game plan to maximize the potential of the remaining roster and minimize the impact of these key absences. – Fan Engagement: This situation creates an opportunity for the fanbase to rally behind the team, showcasing their support for the players stepping into critical roles. – Looking Ahead: The Commanders will need to focus on executing their game plan effectively to keep their playoff hopes alive, regardless of the personnel on the field.

Conclusion: A Test of Resilience

As the Commanders gear up to face the Falcons, the stakes have never been higher. The absence of key players like Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin presents a formidable challenge, but it also offers a chance for the team to demonstrate its depth and resilience. While fans will certainly miss the dynamic duo, it’s in the face of adversity that teams often find their true identity. Here’s hoping that the Commanders can rise to the occasion and deliver a performance that sparks renewed hope for the remainder of the season.

Sources

– “Commanders’ Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin not on the practice field – NBC Sports” [Link to article]