The Atlanta Falcons have moved swiftly to appoint Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach, handing the experienced leader a second chance in the NFL just days after his departure from the Cleveland Browns. The announcement was made on Saturday night, concluding a rapid search for a successor to Raheem Morris.
A Proven Leader Gets a Fresh Start
Stefanski, 42, brings a wealth of experience to Atlanta after a six-year tenure with the Cleveland Browns. During his time in Ohio, he compiled a regular-season record of 45-56 and earned significant individual acclaim, being named the Associated Press Coach of the Year on two separate occasions. His first award came in 2020 after guiding the Browns to an 11-5 record, their first playoff appearance since 2002, and their first postseason victory since 1994. He repeated the feat in 2023 following another 11-6 campaign and playoff berth.
His tenure in Cleveland ended on 5 January following a disappointing 5-12 season. The Falcons, who parted ways with coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after an 8-9 finish, identified Stefanski as their primary target. He will report directly to newly appointed team president Matt Ryan, the franchise's legendary former quarterback.
"We’re thrilled to land a lead-by-example leader in Kevin Stefanski," Ryan stated. "He brings a clear vision for his staff, our team and a closely aligned focus on building this team on fundamentals, toughness and active collaboration with every area of the football operation."
Navigating Quarterback Questions and Inheriting Talent
Stefanski steps into a complex situation at the game's most crucial position. The Falcons' quarterback room features veteran Kirk Cousins, whom Stefanski worked with during their shared time with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 and 2019, and young prospect Michael Penix Jr.. Cousins, signed to a lucrative four-year deal in 2024, lost his starting role mid-season before reclaiming it after Penix suffered a season-ending knee injury. Cousins led the team to a 5-4 finish, including four consecutive wins to close the year.
This quarterback uncertainty is familiar territory for Stefanski. In Cleveland, he navigated a carousel of starters following the trade of Baker Mayfield and the acquisition of Deshaun Watson, with Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders all taking snaps in 2025.
However, he also inherits a roster brimming with proven talent. The Falcons boast four players who received All-Pro honours in 2025:
- Running back Bijan Robinson (First-team, Second-team all-purpose)
- Tight end Kyle Pitts Sr (Second-team)
- Right guard Chris Lindstrom (Second-team)
- Safety Jessie Bates III (Second-team)
Building a New Era in Atlanta
Stefanski's appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Falcons, orchestrated by owner Arthur Blank and president Matt Ryan. The coach spent 14 years climbing the ranks with the Minnesota Vikings before getting his first head coaching opportunity in Cleveland, giving him a deep understanding of franchise building.
"Coach Stefanski is a team-first leader who puts a premium on accountability for everyone and a player-driven culture," Ryan emphasised. "His experience has given him a great understanding of the importance of working in sync with scouting, personnel and the rest of the football staff."
For his part, Stefanski expressed clear enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. "I’m beyond thrilled to be charged with leading this iconic franchise," he said. "I am grateful to Mr Blank and Matt Ryan for trusting me to coach this football team... We share a vision for this football team that I believe will make Falcons fans everywhere proud."
His immediate tasks include assembling a coaching staff and working with the front office to appoint a new general manager. With a blend of elite talent and pressing questions to answer, Stefanski's second act in the NFL begins with high stakes in Atlanta.
