Falcons Fire Defensive Coordinator Jimmy Lake After Disappointing Season

Atlanta also parts ways with defensive line coach Jay Rodgers as the team seeks to address defensive struggles and end a seven-year playoff drought.

The Falcons fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and defensive line coach Jay Rodgers after finishing 8-9 and missing the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season.
Atlanta's defense ranked 23rd in both scoring (24.9 points allowed per game) and total yards (345.2 yards per game) in 2024, with a league-low pass rush and poor secondary performance.
Head coach Raheem Morris, in his first season, became increasingly involved in defensive coaching, signaling dissatisfaction with Lake's performance.
The Falcons' late-season losses, including a 44-38 overtime defeat to Carolina, highlighted defensive shortcomings despite standout efforts from safety Jessie Bates and linebacker Kaden Elliss.
Atlanta will search for its fourth defensive coordinator in five seasons, with potential candidates including former Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich and others with NFL experience.