Atlanta, GA, September 22, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Falcons have let go of wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard following a poor offensive performance in the current season. T.J. Yates, previously the passing game coordinator, will step into Hilliard’s role. During Hilliard’s tenure, standout receiver Drake London had a record-breaking year, but the team’s current record of 0-2 indicates significant struggles on offense. The Falcons have yet to score a touchdown by wide receivers or tight ends this season, necessitating urgent changes to improve their performance.
Atlanta – The Atlanta Falcons have officially fired wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard following a disappointing offensive start to the current season. The decision comes as the Falcons struggle to find their rhythm on offense, leading to a lackluster performance from the wide receiver unit.
T.J. Yates, who previously served as the Falcons’ receivers coach from 2022 to 2023, has been named to take over Hilliard’s responsibilities. Yates transitioned to coaching quarterbacks in 2024 and will now revert to work with the wide receivers amidst the ongoing offensive challenges.
Hilliard joined the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 after a stint as co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach at Auburn in 2022. His first year with the Falcons was marked by notable success, as wide receiver Drake London achieved career highs with 100 receptions, 1,271 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns. This performance placed London among the elite in franchise history, making him the third player to exceed 100 receptions, 1,200 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns in a single season.
Under Hilliard’s guidance, other receivers, including free agent signings Darnell Mooney and Ray-Ray McCloud, also experienced career-best seasons. Mooney narrowly missed the 1,000-yard mark last season, finishing just eight yards short, while McCloud set personal records with 62 receptions and 686 receiving yards.
However, the current season paints a stark contrast to the previous successes. So far, London has recorded only 16 receptions for 159 yards, failing to find the end zone. Mooney and McCloud have struggled as well, tallying six catches for 64 yards and five catches for 71 yards, respectively. Alarmingly, the Falcons have not registered any touchdowns from their wide receivers or tight ends in the first three games of the season. The offense managed just one touchdown in the last eight quarters of play, which includes a shutout loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Head coach Raheem Morris has stressed the importance of accountability within the team, particularly for quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who has faced increasing scrutiny as the offensive unit falters. Adding to the woes, kicker Parker Romo, who previously had a standout game with five field goals, missed two crucial attempts during the Panthers’ game, further contributing to the team’s offensive struggles.
In an effort to rectify the problems, the Falcons plan to rotate their offensive coordinator closer to the quarterback on game days. The current scenario sees the Falcons sitting at 0-2 in the NFC South, having been outscored significantly in their recent games. Notably, this marks the first time in a decade that the Falcons have finished scoreless on the road.
The Falcons must now regroup rapidly as they prepare for their next game, needing to improve both their offensive strategy and player performance to revive their season.
FAQ
What happened to Atlanta Falcons’ wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard?
The Atlanta Falcons have officially fired wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard amidst offensive struggles.
Who will replace Ike Hilliard?
Passing game coordinator T.J. Yates is set to take over Hilliard’s duties.
What were some of the achievements of Drake London under Ike Hilliard?
During Hilliard’s first season, wide receiver Drake London achieved career highs with 100 receptions, 1,271 receiving yards, and nine receiving touchdowns.
How are the Falcons performing this season?
The Falcons’ current season shows a decline in offensive performance, with London having 16 receptions for 159 yards and no touchdowns so far.
What is the current record of the Falcons in the NFC South?
The Falcons are currently 0-2 in the NFC South and have been outscored in recent games.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coach Fired | Ike Hilliard |
| New Coach | T.J. Yates |
| Star Player | Drake London |
| Current Record | 0-2 in NFC South |
| Touchdowns This Season | 0 from wide receivers or tight ends |
| Last Game Result | Shutout loss to Carolina Panthers |
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta Falcons Official: Falcons Part Ways with Wide Receiver Coach
- SI: Falcons Fire Offensive Coach After Disastrous Showing Against Panthers
- Atlanta Falcons Official: Former WR Mohamed Sanu Retires from NFL
- Times Free Press: Falcons Will Need Strong Penix to London
- Atlanta Falcons Official: Parker Romo Named Starting Kicker vs. Panthers
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Falcons
- Google Search: Atlanta Falcons
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Falcons
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Falcons
- Google News: Atlanta Falcons
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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