Daijiworld Media Network – Atlanta

Atlanta, Jan 18: The Atlanta Falcons have appointed Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach following a second interview with the team on Saturday. Stefanski, 43, succeeds Raheem Morris, who was dismissed along with general manager Terry Fontenot on January 4.

A two-time NFL Coach of the Year with the Cleveland Browns, Stefanski was the first candidate to receive a second interview with Falcons president and former quarterback Matt Ryan. “We’re thrilled to land a lead-by-example leader in Kevin Stefanski,” Ryan said. “Coach Stefanski is a team-first leader who puts a premium on accountability and a player-driven culture.”

Stefanski, a Philadelphia native, has begun assembling his potential coaching staff and reportedly studied ways to collaborate with current defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich. Team owner Arthur Blank welcomed Stefanski, stating he believes the new coach will elevate the roster and strengthen the Falcons’ foundation.

Stefanski was let go by the Browns after the 2025 season, ending a six-year tenure with a 45-56 record. He led Cleveland to two playoff appearances and earned Coach of the Year honors in 2020 and 2023.

“I’m beyond thrilled to be charged with leading this iconic franchise,” Stefanski said. “We share a vision for this football team that I believe will make Falcons fans everywhere proud. We will get to work immediately putting together a first-class coaching staff and working hard to get to know all the great people that are so important to getting us all where we want to go.”