The Atlanta Falcons were linked to nine different candidates for their head coach vacancy on Thursday as they attempt to find Arthur Smith’s replacement. While the team goes through its interview process, fans have begun to wonder what will happen to the rest of the coaching staff.
Defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen thrived during his first season in Atlanta and many want to see him stay on the coaching staff in his same role. If the Falcons hire a defensive-minded head coach, it’s far less likely that Nielsen would be retained.
However, Atlanta doesn’t appear particularly eager to let any of its coordinators leave just yet. According to multiple reports, the Falcons have blocked three assistant coaches, including Nielsen and special teams coordinator Marquice Williams, from interviewing for other jobs.
Falcons block Nielsen from Jags DC opening
According to a source, the Falcons blocked DC Ryan Nielsen from interviewing for the open Jaguars DC job.
Nielsen led a rejuvenation of Atlanta’s defense last season.
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) January 11, 2024
Falcons block STC Marquice Williams from Giants
The #Giants requested to interview #Falcons special teams coordinator Marquice Williams but were blocked by Atlanta, per sources. Falcons could keep Williams as part of the staff for the next head coach.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 12, 2024
Falcons deny Giants again
The Giants requested to interview Falcons OL Coach Dwayne Ledford for the same position but the Falcons denied the request, per source. pic.twitter.com/sWywfPt9Cb
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) January 10, 2024
The Falcons have the right to block any current member of the staff from interviewing for the same position with another team, but they couldn’t stop a coach if they were to interview for an elevated job title.
So if a team wanted to interview Ryan Nielsen or Marquice Williams for a head coach vacancy, there would be nothing Atlanta could do about it. Make sure you stay up to date with each Falcons interview request using our tracker.
