Matt Ryan sat on a stage at the front of the Atlanta Falcons’ meeting room last week at the association’s facility in Flowery Branch,Georgia. The former franchise quarterback was introduced at a news conference as the team’s new president of football.
Falcons owner Arthur Blank reiterated that Ryan would be leading the interviews for the team’s head coach and general manager openings.ryan was asked if he preferred that Atlanta hire a coach wiht an expertise in offense.Ryan was a quarterback, after all, and Michael Penix Jr., the Falcons’ young QB, needs further development.
Ryan said that it didn’t matter to him if the coach specialized in offense or defense, as long as he was a steady leader with outstanding character.
Ryan and the Falcons believe they have that guy in former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year (2020 and 2023). Stefanski has a reputation as a shining offensive mind, a key trait as the Falcons prioritize Penix’s development.
How high up was Stefanski on the Falcons’ board? Could he be the right guy to take Penix to the next level and get the Falcons back to the playoffs for the first time in eight seasons? And what is to be made of Stefanski’s 45-56 record with the Browns?
falcons reporter Marc Raimondi, Browns reporter Daniel Oyefusi, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler and NFL analyst Ben Solak break down the hire from various perspectives.
Was Stefanski the falcons’ top choice all along?
Table of Contents
kevin Stefanski’s Coaching Transition to the Atlanta Falcons
On January 18, 2024, the Atlanta Falcons announced the hiring of Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach, marking a notable shift for the organization after the departure of Arthur Smith. As of january 19, 2026, Stefanski remains the head coach, and ther have been no reported changes to his position.
Background and Previous Experience
Kevin Stefanski brings a wealth of experience to Atlanta, primarily known for his offensive acumen.He previously served as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns from 2020 to 2023, achieving a 33-33 regular season record and leading the team to a playoff appearance in 2020. Cleveland Browns Official Website – Kevin Stefanski. Prior to his time in Cleveland, Stefanski held various offensive coordinator and coaching positions with the Minnesota Vikings and Philadelphia Eagles.
Falcons’ Rationale for Hiring Stefanski
the Falcons sought a coach capable of maximizing the potential of their offense, particularly with the presence of quarterback Kirk Cousins, whom they signed in March 2024. Atlanta Falcons Official Website – Kirk Cousins Signing. Stefanski’s track record of developing quarterbacks and implementing effective offensive schemes made him a prime candidate.Falcons owner Arthur Blank stated the organization was looking for a coach who could “bring a consistent winning culture” to the team. atlanta Falcons Official Website – Arthur Blank Statement
Early Expectations and Scheme Adjustments
Analysts predict Stefanski will adapt his offensive scheme to suit the strengths of Kirk Cousins and the Falcons’ existing personnel. His time in Cleveland demonstrated a preference for a run-first approach, but he also showcased the ability to utilize play-action passing effectively.Similar to his early years in Cleveland, his scheme in Atlanta will likely evolve as he assesses the team’s capabilities. As of January 19, 2026, the Falcons finished the 2025 season with a 9-8 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. NFL.com – Atlanta Falcons Standings
Key Personnel and Organizational Changes
Alongside Stefanski’s hiring,the Falcons made several changes to their coaching staff. Ryan Nielsen was retained as defensive coordinator, while several offensive assistants were brought in to implement Stefanski’s system. The Falcons also hired a new special teams coordinator, John Fassel, in February 2024. Atlanta Falcons Official website – Coaching staff Updates. These changes reflect a commitment to building a well-rounded coaching staff capable of supporting Stefanski’s vision.
