Kevin Stefanski Secures Second Interview with Falcons, Source Confirms
Kevin Stefanski is set to have a second interview for the Atlanta Falcons’ head coaching position, according to a source confirmed by The Athletic. This interview will take place on Saturday night, making Stefanski the front-runner for the role.
Background on the Coaching Search
The Falcons’ search for a new head coach was initiated following the dismissal of Raheem Morris on January 4. Matt Ryan, Atlanta’s franchise leader in passing, took on the role of president of football operations on January 10. Ryan is leading the head coaching interviews and has stated that he seeks a coach who exemplifies “emotional stability.”
Matt Ryan’s Vision for Coaching
In his introductory press conference, Ryan mentioned the challenges of being a head coach. He emphasized the importance of maintaining emotional composure amid the job’s highs and lows. “Some of the best guys I was around in those positions were very stable emotionally,” Ryan noted.
Kevin Stefanski’s Coaching Record
Stefanski, a Pennsylvania native like Ryan, previously coached the Cleveland Browns, where he amassed a record of 45 wins and 56 losses over six seasons. He earned NFL Coach of the Year honors twice, in 2020 and 2023, and successfully led the Browns to two playoff appearances despite struggles in a competitive AFC North division.
His Tenure at the Browns
- Win-Loss Record: 45-56
- Playoff Appearances: 2
- Scoring Average: 20.31 points per game (29th in the league)
- Point Differential: Minus-296 (24th in the league)
- Offensive Expected Points Added: Minus-563.37 (31st in the league)
Previous Coaching Experience
Before his time in Cleveland, Stefanski spent 14 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. There, he progressed from assistant to the head coach to the offensive coordinator role. Under his guidance in 2019, the Vikings’ offense ranked eighth in the league for scoring, averaging 25.4 points per game.
Quarterback Challenges
During his tenure with the Browns, Stefanski faced a rotating lineup of quarterbacks, including notable names such as Baker Mayfield, Deshaun Watson, and Joe Flacco. This instability contributed to the challenges his offense experienced.
Other Candidates for the Position
Aside from Stefanski, the Falcons have interviewed several candidates for the head coaching position. These include:
- John Harbaugh (Former Ravens Head Coach)
- Mike McDaniel (Former Dolphins Head Coach)
- Jeff Hafley (Packers Defensive Coordinator)
- Jesse Minter (Chargers Defensive Coordinator)
- Anthony Weaver (Dolphins Defensive Coordinator)
- Aden Durde (Seahawks Defensive Coordinator)
As the head coaching search continues, Matt Ryan’s insights highlight the importance of connecting with players and establishing a commanding presence as a coach.
