The Atlanta Falcons fired head coach Raheem Morris on Sunday evening, the team confirmed via public statement. Morris was in charge for just two campaigns, overseeing consecutive 8-9 seasons. The Falcons failed to qualify for the postseason despite playing in an NFC South division that did not produce a single winning record.
The Falcons concluded the 2025 campaign on a four-game winning streak, but it wasn't enough to salvage Morris' job after they were eliminated from playoff contention a month ago. Major structural changes are on the horizon for the Falcons this offseason, as general manager Terry Fontenot was also dismissed.
Owner Arthur Blank will appoint a President of Football Operations, with former quarterback Matt Ryan expected to assume the role. Together, the president and two outside search firms appointed by Blank will help hire a new general manager and head coach. With that in mind, we've identified three potential head coaching candidates for the Falcons.
Klint Kubiak, Seahawks OC
Morris did a fantastic job transforming a Falcons defense that received significant contributions from rookies Jalon Walker, Xavier Watts, and James Pearce Jr. When a coach is fired, the organization often goes in the opposite direction with his successor. The Falcons could shift attention to an offensive-minded leader who could help develop sophomore top-10 quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
Penix will spend the offseason rehabbing a partially torn ACL. His development is of the utmost importance. Many expect Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak to be a candidate. Kubiak helped the Seahawks go 14-3 this season and claim the No. 1 seed in the conference. Quarterback Sam Darnold has played like an MVP candidate in his system. The Falcons would be allowed to conduct a virtual interview with him this week.
Kevin Stefanski, former Browns HC
The Cleveland Browns dismissed head coach Kevin Stefanski on Monday morning. The two-time Coach of the Year winner is now expected to be a significant name in this offseason's coaching cycle. The Falcons should strongly consider interviewing Stefanski. The Tennessee Titans and New York Giants will also be attentive to his availability.
Stefanski's firing in Cleveland will age poorly. He produced two 11-win seasons and playoff appearances for one of the least successful franchises historically in the NFL. Stefanski played four quarterbacks in 2025, and decisions at the most important position were often made above his head (Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders). He would be an excellent choice to take over a potentially explosive offensive unit in Atlanta.
Bill Belichick, North Carolina HC
Bill Belichick was a candidate for the Falcons' opening two offseasons ago. They decided to appoint Morris and Belichick went to college to coach at North Carolina. Could the Falcons possibly reignite their interest?
Things haven't gone swimmingly in Chapel Hill for Belichick, putting it lightly. On the surface, it appears unlikely that he'll return to the NFL, but Blank is a legitimate wild-card in Atlanta's coaching search. The owner always possesses final decision-making authority and Blank was fascinated with potentially luring the most successful head coach to Atlanta. Belichick could emerge as a potential candidate.
