The Atlanta Falcons have commenced a significant restructuring of their leadership, initiating the search for a new head coach by engaging with Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. This development coincides with the franchise's appointment of former quarterback Matt Ryan to a pivotal new executive role, signaling a fresh strategic direction for the team's football operations. These changes come in the wake of a disappointing 2025 season, which saw the Falcons finish with an 8-9 record and led to the departures of both their previous head coach and general manager. The franchise is clearly aiming for a comprehensive overhaul to improve its future performance and competitive standing.
With the former general manager and head coach having been relieved of their duties, the Falcons are now focused on identifying new leadership that can propel the team forward. The interview with Weaver marks the beginning of a crucial selection process, indicating the team's commitment to exploring experienced candidates from across the league. The establishment of Matt Ryan's new position as president of football operations, with direct oversight of future coaching and managerial appointments, underscores a centralized approach to talent acquisition and strategic planning. This structural shift is designed to ensure alignment and accountability in the decision-making processes that will shape the Falcons' trajectory in the coming seasons.
Atlanta Falcons Begin Head Coach Search
The Atlanta Falcons have officially launched their quest for a new head coach, with Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver being among the first candidates interviewed. This marks a critical juncture for the franchise as it seeks to rebuild and enhance its performance following a season that fell short of expectations. Weaver brings a wealth of experience, having served as a defensive coordinator for the Dolphins for two seasons, in addition to extensive prior experience as a position coach across several NFL teams. His background includes stints with the New York Jets, Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, and Baltimore Ravens, culminating in his role as defensive coordinator for the Texans before joining the Dolphins. The Falcons' decision to engage with a seasoned defensive mind like Weaver suggests a potential focus on defensive strategy as a cornerstone of their future team identity.
The search for a new head coach is a direct consequence of the Falcons' 2025 season, which concluded with a sub-par 8-9 record, leading to the dismissal of both head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. This organizational shake-up highlights the team's determination to usher in a new era of leadership and strategic direction. The interview with Weaver is the initial step in a comprehensive process to evaluate candidates who can instill a winning culture and improve the team's overall competitiveness. The Falcons are looking for a leader who can not only scheme effectively but also inspire and develop players, ultimately guiding the franchise back to sustained success in the demanding landscape of the NFL. The outcome of this search will be pivotal in defining the team's future on-field performance and its ability to contend for championships.
Matt Ryan's New Leadership Role and Vision
In a significant executive restructuring, the Atlanta Falcons have appointed former star quarterback Matt Ryan to the newly created position of president of football operations. This move occurred concurrently with the initiation of the head coach search, positioning Ryan as a central figure in the team's strategic direction and future appointments. Reporting directly to team owner Arthur Blank, Ryan will now oversee all football-related operations, including the crucial decisions regarding the new general manager and head coach, both of whom will report to him. This elevation signifies a profound commitment to leveraging Ryan's deep understanding of the game and the franchise to guide its strategic vision and ensure a cohesive approach to team building and performance management.
Ryan's mandate involves collaborating closely with team president and CEO Greg Beadles, who remains in charge of the business aspects of the organization, thereby creating a clear division of responsibilities between the football and business sides. This collaborative framework aims to streamline decision-making processes and ensure that both strategic football objectives and sound business practices are aligned. With Ryan at the helm of football operations, the Falcons are signaling a long-term commitment to developing a robust and competitive football program. His influence will extend to all aspects of the team, from player acquisitions and coaching staff development to cultivating a winning culture, as the franchise endeavors to re-establish itself as a dominant force in the National Football League.