Falcons complete second interview with Rams executive Brad Holmes

The Falcons are closing in on their preferred candidates for both their head coach and general manager openings this week. Atlanta has interviewed 5 candidates so far in their search for a new GM: former Texans GM Rick Smith, Falcons Director of College Scouting Anthony Robinson, Rams Director of College Scouting Brad Holmes, Colts Director of College Scouting Morocco Brown, and Saints VP/Assistant GM Terry Fontenot.

After the news that Fontenot will receive a second interview with the team this week, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero is now reporting that Rams executive Brad Holmes completed a second interview with the Falcons on Saturday and is among 3 finalists for the job alongside Fontenot and Rick Smith.

Holmes has an obvious connection to Atlanta, as he’s been the Director of College Scouting for the Rams since 2013 alongside GM Les Snead—who was a scout for the Falcons from 1997-2009 and Director of Player Personnel from 2009-2011. He also lives in Atlanta and spends much of the year in the southeast keeping an eye on prospects. Holmes has contributed to a number of successful drafts, including the selection of all-world DT Aaron Donald, RB Todd Gurley, and QB Jared Goff.

It sounds like the Falcons have narrowed their GM search to Holmes, Fontenot, and Smith. If the current buzz is to be believed, Fontenot seems to have taken the lead over the past week after Rick Smith seemed to hold the top spot for most of the season. The good news is that all 3 candidates are intriguing and look like excellent hires to replace Thomas Dimitroff—who was a frequent punching bag of the fanbase for his free agency record and inability to find pass rushers, but still managed to bring in a lot of quality players via the draft.

Who would you like the see the Falcons hire out of Brad Holmes, Terry Fontenot, or Rick Smith for the GM vacancy? Would this hire affect your preferences at HC?