NFL Rumors: Falcons HC Search ‘Wide Open’ Despite Bill Belichick, Jim Harbaugh Buzz

Julia StumbaughJanuary 21, 2024

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Despite reportedly scheduling second interviews with both former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick and Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Atlanta Falcons’ search for a new head coach remains “wide open,” a source told ESPN’s Michael Rothstein.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter also reported on Sunday that the “Falcons are interviewing Texans’ OC Bobby Slowik today. They also will be meeting this week with Mike Vrabel and Jim Harbaugh in person, and scheduling other in-person head-coaching interviews as well.”

“The franchise is happy with the way it has gone thus far,” Rothstein wrote.

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero initially reported the team’s second meeting with Harbaugh, which was confirmed by Rothstein. Pelissero said the interview will take place “next week.”

Belichick, 71, holds a record six Super Bowl wins as head coach of the New England Patriots. Harbaugh, 60, recently led the Wolverines to a CFP national championship.

The Falcons could choose either of them to replace Arthur Smith, who was fired on Jan. 8 after the team’s 7-10 finish in 2023 marked the third consecutive losing season in Atlanta.

But the club’s options aren’t limited to Belichick or Harbaugh, who are also be considering other offers. The Falcons have in total interviewed 11 coaches for the position so far, according to Rothstein.

The Falcons have held first interviews with defensive coordinators Brian Callahan (Cincinnati Bengals), Steve Wilks (San Francisco 49ers), Ejiro Evero (Carolina Panthers) and Aaron Glenn (Detroit Lions).

The team has also held initial interviews with Baltimore Ravens assistant head coach and defensive line Coach Anthony Weaver and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Brian Johnson.

Most recently the Falcons conducted Saturday interviews with defensive coordinator Raheem Morris of the Los Angeles Rams as well as Buffalo Bills interim offensive coordinator Joe Brady.