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Black Monday is the term used for the day after the NFL season when team owners and general managers move on from their coaching staffs. In the same way popular shopping day Black Friday has leaked into Thanksgiving, some coaches are fired a few hours after they coach their last game.
The day is early but we have a lot of big names that could resurface in Atlanta’s expected retooled coaching staff.
Dirk Koetter, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Dirk Koetter was fired on Sunday after three years as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach. He’s a very good offensive coordinator but probably not a good fit with Quinn’s preferred offensive scheme and the current personnel.
Steve Wilks, Arizona Cardinals
Steve Wilks was shockingly only given one season with the Arizona Cardinals. He was unable to turn a disaster roster into much more but there were a number of confusing schematic decisions on offense and defense. Wilks had one great season as the Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator and would make sense replacing Marquand Manuel.
Vance Joseph, Denver Broncos
Vance Joseph, similar to Wilks, was unable to turn a terrible roster into a playoff team. Joseph is a very qualified defensive coordinator who spent years with the Cincinnati Bengals. Joseph would be a dream defensive coordinator if he fits with Quinn’s defensive mindset.
Adam Gase, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins fired Adam Gase after multiple losing seasons. He’s already rumored to be in the running for multiple head coaching positions. He’s probably over his head in that role but is unquestionably a better offensive coordinator than half the league. He would be a huge improvement for the Falcons offense if he strikes out on another head coaching job.
Marvin Lewis, Cincinnati Bengals
I never thought I would live to see the day that Marvin Lewis was fired from the Cincinnati Bengals. He’s been with the team since 2003 but should have been fired countless times before now. I can’t say how Lewis was as a defensive coordinator but he’s certainly the most experienced coach available.
Todd Bowles, New York Jets
A potential hire way back in 2015, Bowles may run the complete opposite defense Quinn prefers. Lots of blitzing, complicated schemes, aggressive plays, and exotic formations. Bowles will certainly run defenses in the NFL but I don’t see how he ends up under Quinn.