Atlanta, GA, January 18, 2026
The Atlanta Falcons have appointed Kevin Stefanski as their 20th head coach, marking a strategic shift for the franchise after a challenging season. With previous success at the helm of the Cleveland Browns, including two NFL Coach of the Year awards, Stefanski brings experience and a disciplined approach to a team seeking renewal. His focus on fundamental football principles and collaboration is expected to resonate as the Falcons enter a rebuilding phase aimed at achieving sustained success.
Atlanta
In a move signaling a clear pursuit of stability and a disciplined approach, the Atlanta Falcons officially named Kevin Stefanski as the franchise’s 20th head coach late Saturday, January 18, 2026. This significant appointment brings a two-time Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year to a team seeking a decisive new direction after a challenging 2025 season. The announcement, made after Stefanski met with Falcons ownership and new president of football operations Matt Ryan, underscores a desire for proven leadership and a consistent strategic vision as the organization embarks on a rebuilding phase.
Stefanski’s Established Path to Leadership
Stefanski, 43, arrives in Atlanta with a notable professional resume forged over six seasons as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns, following a lengthy tenure as an assistant with the Minnesota Vikings. During his time with the Browns from 2020 to 2025, he guided the team to two playoff appearances in 2020 and 2023, a significant achievement for a franchise long yearning for postseason success. His initial campaign in 2020 was particularly transformative, leading the Browns to their first playoff berth since 2002 and their first postseason victory since 1994, earning him his first NFL Coach of the Year award. He received the honor again in 2023. Under his leadership, Cleveland compiled an overall record of 45-56.
Before his head coaching opportunity, Stefanski spent 14 years with the Minnesota Vikings, progressing through various roles from assistant to the head coach to offensive coordinator during his final two seasons there. This extensive apprenticeship helped him cultivate a reputation as an offensive-minded coach, known for his methodical approach to game planning and team structure. His offensive philosophy typically emphasizes a robust rushing attack, often incorporating wide zone plays and strategic play-action passing, designed to create a balanced and unpredictable offensive scheme. His coaching worldview is fundamentally rooted in the principles of discipline, responsibility, and collective effort. This practical, empirically-driven approach to football is expected to resonate with the Falcons’ aim for a foundational reset.
The Falcons’ leadership articulated their valuation of Stefanski’s calm leadership style, his focus on fundamental football principles, and his ability to work effectively with players across all experience levels. Falcons President Matt Ryan, who was deeply involved in the hiring process alongside owner Arthur M. Blank, highlighted Stefanski’s collaborative style and his commitment to fostering a player-first environment where accountability is paramount for everyone within the organization. Stefanski’s experience in building competitive programs from struggling situations was a key factor in his selection.
The Falcons’ Quest for Renewal
Stefanski steps into a role left vacant by the dismissal of Raheem Morris, who was relieved of his duties following the conclusion of the 2025 season. The 2025 campaign saw the Atlanta Falcons finish with an 8-9-0 record, placing third in the NFC South Division. This performance marked a failure to improve upon their record from the previous season and extended the franchise’s absence from the playoffs to seven consecutive years, alongside an eight-year NFC South title drought. The season was characterized by inconsistency, preventing the team from building winning streaks or closing out critical games.
Offensively, the Falcons concluded the 2025 season ranked 24th in the league in points scored per game. Despite these team struggles, there were glimpses of individual brilliance and positional strength. Running back Bijan Robinson delivered a standout season, leading the league in scrimmage yards and recording 11 touchdowns. Furthermore, the offensive line, even while navigating significant injuries early in the season, demonstrated notable strength in the run blocking department. On the defensive side, the Falcons’ defensive line underwent a remarkable turnaround, breaking the team’s single-season sack record and showcasing significant improvement.
Beyond the coaching change, the Falcons organization also saw shifts in its executive structure following the 2025 season, including the promotion of Greg Beadles to CEO by owner Arthur Blank, replacing Rich McKay. These comprehensive changes reflect a determined effort to infuse new perspectives and leadership into every facet of the franchise. Stefanski’s immediate task will involve assembling his coaching staff and conducting a thorough evaluation of the Falcons’ roster, with the hope of instilling the discipline and strategic clarity necessary to guide the team toward a renewed era of sustained success and competitive relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons?
The new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons is Kevin Stefanski.
When was Kevin Stefanski named the new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons?
Kevin Stefanski was officially named the new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons late Saturday, January 18, 2026.
What was Kevin Stefanski’s previous coaching role?
Kevin Stefanski previously served as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns for six seasons, from 2020 to 2025.
How many NFL Coach of the Year awards has Kevin Stefanski won?
Kevin Stefanski has won the Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year award twice, in 2020 and 2023.
What was the Atlanta Falcons’ record in the 2025 season?
The Atlanta Falcons finished the 2025 season with an 8-9-0 record.
Did the Atlanta Falcons make the playoffs in the 2025 season?
No, the Atlanta Falcons did not make the playoffs in the 2025 season, extending a seven-year absence from the playoffs.
What is Kevin Stefanski’s offensive philosophy?
Kevin Stefanski’s offensive philosophy typically emphasizes a robust rushing attack, often incorporating wide zone plays and strategic play-action passing.
Key Features of Kevin Stefanski’s Appointment
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| New Head Coach | Kevin Stefanski for the Atlanta Falcons | State-level |
| Date of Appointment | Late Saturday, January 18, 2026 | State-level |
| Previous Role | Head Coach, Cleveland Browns (2020-2025) | Nationwide |
| NFL Coach of the Year Awards | Two-time winner (2020, 2023) | Nationwide |
| Falcons 2025 Season Record | 8-9-0, 3rd in NFC South Division | State-level |
| Falcons Playoff Absence | Extended to seven consecutive years | State-level |
| Offensive Philosophy | Strong rushing attack, wide zone plays, play-action passing | Nationwide |
| Leadership Style | Calm, disciplined, player-first, collaborative, accountability-focused | Nationwide |