Kevin Stefanski has been named head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, less than two weeks after being dismissed by the Cleveland Browns. The appointment was confirmed on Saturday night, with Stefanski replacing Raheem Morris, who was sacked alongside general manager Terry Fontenot after an 8-9 season.
Stefanski, 42, spent six seasons with Cleveland, accruing a 45-56 record and twice being named AP Coach of the Year. He led the Browns to their first playoff appearance in 18 years in 2020 and another postseason berth in 2023, but the team finished 5-12 in his final campaign.
Falcons team president Matt Ryan, who also holds most of the franchise’s major passing records, praised Stefanski as a 'lead-by-example leader' with a clear vision. Stefanski said he was 'beyond thrilled' to lead the team and emphasised building on fundamentals and collaboration.
Stefanski inherits a roster featuring four 2025 All-Pros, including running back Bijan Robinson and tight end Kyle Pitts. However, he faces uncertainty at quarterback, with Michael Penix Jr recovering from a season-ending knee injury and Kirk Cousins, who took over last season, still on the roster.
The Falcons also have key staffing decisions ahead, including appointing a new general manager. Stefanski has experience with quarterback transitions from his time in Cleveland, where he worked with multiple starters. He will report directly to Ryan under owner Arthur Blank.
