Total Pro Sports
The Atlanta Falcons missed out on a big coaching target this week. John Harbaugh chose to take the New York Giants job, forcing Atlanta to move on quickly. Owner Arthur Blank and president Matt Ryan now face a critical stretch in their search for a new head coach.
The Falcons seriously went for Harbaugh and held a long virtual interview with him on Monday, according to The Athletic. Atlanta believed its young talent could appeal to him, highlighting players like Jessie Bates III, Drake London, James Pearce Jr., and Bijan Robinson. Harbaugh listened, but ultimately picked New York.
After losing out on Harbaugh, the Falcons shifted their focus. Reports now say Kevin Stefanski has become their top target, and other teams are already competing for him.
Connor Hughes of SNY reported that Stefanski now stands as the Falcons’ main focus. Hughes summed up the situation clearly. “That was talk before: Whoever didn’t land Harbaugh would get Stefanski,” he said.
Stefanski coached the Cleveland Browns from 2020 to 2025. He finished with a 45-56 record, led the team to the playoffs twice, and won Coach of the Year two times. That track record has made him a popular name across the league.
The #Giants & John Harbaugh are expected to finalize the deal for him to become their head coach today, per sources. They’re pretty close to getting it done, I’m told. I do not expect anything to change that.
With that, hearing Kevin Stefanski is favorite for #Falcons job.… pic.twitter.com/7DOWvB83YL
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) January 16, 2026
But still, Atlanta Falcons will face competition. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that several teams plan to pursue him. “My anticipation is Stefanski is going to have second interviews with multiple teams, coming likely next week,” Pelissero said.
He added, “My sense is the Titans, Falcons and Ravens are all potential landing spots for Stefanski.” Reports also say the Miami Dolphins already interviewed Stefanski earlier this week.
The Falcons are keeping their options open. They have also talked with Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, and former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel.
Atlanta believes the roster is strong enough to win quickly with the right coach. The next hire will be a big decision. For now, Stefanski remains the name to watch in a crowded coaching race.
