ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons have actively expressed interest in hiring a new coach and confirmed they’ve interviewed former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh as part of their search.
Harbaugh, renowned for his impressive 18-year span with the Ravens, is regarded as a leading candidate for several teams. Falcons owner Arthur Blank recently shared his hopes that Harbaugh would consider the Falcons an appealing opportunity.
“John has been one of the most accomplished coaches over the last two decades and has succeeded at every level,” Blank stated. “He certainly stands out as a candidate we are eager to meet with. Whether he is interested in Atlanta, that remains to be seen.”
Following their discussions, the Falcons confirmed that Harbaugh is, in fact, interested in the Atlanta position.
After finishing the season with an 8-9 record, the Falcons are eager to make a significant change, especially after ending the season on a high note with four consecutive victories.
This coaching search follows the recent hiring of their former quarterback Matt Ryan, who is now leading the efforts to find a new head coach and general manager. Ryan is set to hold his first news conference in this newly established role on Tuesday. Both the new coach and GM will report directly to him.
On his final day as an NFL analyst with CBS, Ryan expressed his desire to break the Falcons’ streak of eight consecutive losing seasons and guide the franchise back to the playoffs next year.
Both Ryan and the Falcons are hoping to replicate the success Harbaugh experienced with the Ravens. Under his leadership, Baltimore achieved an impressive 193-124 record, including postseason play. Harbaugh famously led the Ravens to a Super Bowl championship in 2012. This past season marked just the sixth time the franchise missed the playoffs during his tenure.
The Falcons have also conducted interviews with former Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, who is a two-time AP NFL Coach of the Year. Additionally, they met with Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde as they seek to replace interim coach Raheem Morris.
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