Kevin Stefanski: Was It a Good Choice for the Falcons?
The Atlanta Falcons have signed former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski to a five-year deal to become the franchise’s next head coach, following the firing of head coach Raheem Morris and GM Terry Fontenot. Was this the right move?
Two weeks ago, the Falcons hired franchise legend Matt Ryan as the team’s President of Football, a newly created position. Since then, the organization has focused on finding its next head coach and general manager in an effort to end an eight-year playoff drought. After a lengthy interview process, the Falcons ultimately decided on Stefanski as their next head coach.
Stefanski, a two-time AP Coach of the Year, comes to Atlanta after being fired by the Browns. His tenure in Cleveland ended with an 8–26 record over his final two seasons. Despite that stretch, he led the Browns to the playoffs twice in six seasons, finishing with a 1–2 postseason record.
A former Vikings offensive coordinator, Stefanski has long been regarded as one of the league’s brighter offensive minds—something the Falcons desperately need. With uncertainty at the quarterback position, the hope is that Stefanski, a former quarterback coach, can bring stability to the offense. He is accustomed to a run-first system, making Atlanta a strong fit given All-Pro running back Bijan Robinson and a solid offensive line. Stefanski has also committed to retaining standout defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich and hiring legendary offensive line coach Bill Callahan. The search for a general manager and additional offensive staff members continues.
Stefanski, widely viewed as a consensus top-three candidate this hiring cycle, appears to be a strong fit in Atlanta. While some believe Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak may have been a better option, prior head-coaching experience matters. Gambling on whether a coordinator has the leadership presence and ability to succeed as a head coach is not a risk the Falcons can afford right now. Additionally, with premier teams like the Ravens and Bills also holding head-coaching vacancies, Atlanta could not wait for Kubiak to become available once the Seahawks’ season ended. Overall, Stefanski projects as a coach who can immediately change the outlook of the Falcons.
Once a general manager is hired—presumably Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham—there will be more clarity around what the Falcons aim to build in the coming years. Improving the receiver room, continuing to invest in the offensive line, and solidifying the quarterback position will be critical to Stefanski’s success. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has prior experience with Stefanski, but due to his restructured contract, his cap hit will reach $67 million in 2027 if the Falcons do not move on from him by March 2026. While the hire appears promising for Atlanta, greater organizational clarity will be necessary to ensure Stefanski’s long-term success.