Stefanski, a two-time Related Press Coach of the 12 months, was fired by the Browns following the conclusion of the 2025 season. He went 45-56 in six seasons with two playoff appearances, together with the franchise’s first since 2002 in 2020, his first season. Within the six years earlier than Stefanski’s arrival, Cleveland had an NFL-worst 24-71-1 record underneath 4 coaches (together with interim).
The Falcons aren’t in practically as dangerous of a spot, though uncertainty surrounding quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who underwent season-ending knee surgical procedure in November 2025, raises some concern. Backup Kirk Cousins has familiarity with Stefanski from their time shared along with the Minnesota Vikings (2018-19), though a recent decision to modify his contract — guaranteeing $67.9M for 2027 if he is on the roster on Mar. 13 — have to be altered once more to maintain him.
ESPN NFL insider Discipline Yates famous the 2 sides “may agree to a different amended deal,” and hiring Stefanski may enhance the possibilities of that occuring.
After whiffing on John Harbaugh, who interviewed virtually for the position however by no means met in-person with Falcons brass, the stakes have raised for Atlanta to seal a take care of Stefanski. It would not be accelerating a second interview with out feeling strongly about him, making the subsequent 24 hours essential within the search. If Stefanski leaves the constructing with out a contract, the Titans or one other staff may snatch him, setting the Falcons on a path to door No. 3.
That might put the staff in a tough spot, not solely by lacking out on maybe the 2 finest candidates this cycle but in addition revealing to others that they are the fallbacks to the fallback choice. Good luck promoting that to a fanbase ready for the staff’s first playoff berth since 2017.
Stefanski may be the proper slot in Atlanta. His finest offenses have prioritized the run. In seven seasons as an offensive coordinator or head coach, Stefanski’s offenses have ranked within the prime 10 in rush makes an attempt 5 instances and prime 10 in cross makes an attempt simply twice.
It is simple to grasp why that form of scheme would attraction to the Falcons, who roster one of many league’s most dynamic working backs, 2023 first-rounder Bijan Robinson. He obtained first-team All-Professional honors for the primary time in his profession this season whereas accounting for a league-high 2,298 yards from scrimmage, together with 1,478 speeding.
Among the many obtainable coaches, Stefanski could possibly be one of the best at benefiting from the staff’s strengths. The Falcons have made it clear their emotions for Stefanski. They higher hope he feels the identical.
