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The Atlanta Falcons are trying to find themselves a new offensive coordinator, and they’ve got another interview set up with a quite familiar face.
Dirk Koetter scheduled to interview for the Falcons' offensive coordinator position on Saturday, according to a source. Koetter, just let go as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' head coach, was the Falcons' offensive coordinator from 2012-2014. Koetter's last... https://t.co/y4el5yE6x4
— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) January 2, 2019
Dirk Koetter making a grand return to Flowery Branch to once again take rein over the offense is garnering mixed opinions around the Falconsphere. Still, he’s firmly entrenched in the race with Darrell Bevell.
The AJC reported Monday Koetter was the frontrunner for the job, conflicting ESPN’s idea that Bevell is.
The move would signify two things: the Falcons are worried about bringing in someone completely new to pair with veteran quarterback Matt Ryan and that Ryan at least has some input in the decision. Ryan played well for Koetter, even during 2013 and 2014, when the roster was bare for offensive talent and injuries set in. Koetter only had two years with a fully healthy Julio Jones and Roddy White combo, and only one season with a competent offensive line.
Comfort and experience might be the combo to watch on this move, and bringing Koetter back would meet both. It’s not an adventurous hire, and we know what’d we’d be getting. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though, and Koetter’s offense was almost good enough to get the team to a Super Bowl in that splendid 2012 season. If things go right in general, Koetter can get you where you want to go. Plus, there would be less concern for an adjustment period for Ryan.
The hope is Gary Kubiak, but there seems to be lingering doubt that he’ll leave Denver. If the Broncos hire a defensive-minded coach, the assumption is that Kubiak would take over the play calling there. The Falcons are probably interested, but whether he gets out of Mile High is another question entirely and should create some pause.
These are the only three names that have surfaced so far, though don’t be surprised if names like Jim Bob Cooter (Detroit), Freddie Kitchens (Cleveland), Zac Taylor (LA Rams) and even Todd Monken (Tampa Bay) pop up. Those are the other big candidates on the circuit right now and could hypothetically be on Atlanta’s radar.
The fact that they’re waiting until Saturday to interview Koetter might mean the team is willing to play the long game with this, so let’s hope that’s the case and they survey a wide net of candidates.
Though we could also see Koetter hired soon after he’s interviewed. It’s not a bad move at all if that’s the case.