### Falcons Pursue New Leadership: Antonio Pierce Interviewed for Head Coach Position The Atlanta Falcons are actively seeking a new head coach following a disappointing season. They have recently interviewed Antonio Pierce, the former head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, as part of their search for a new leader. Pierce's coaching experience includes a stint as the Raiders' head coach, where he recorded a 9-17 win-loss record. He is among several candidates being considered, which also includes notable names like Mike McDaniel and Kevin Stefanski, as well as current defensive coordinators such as Anthony Weaver and Aden Durde. The Falcons' all-time leading passer, Matt Ryan, who has transitioned to the role of president of football operations, is involved in the selection process [https://apnews.com/article/atlanta-falcons-nfl-antonio-pierce-c9540f325df926ef05e058d20baa97db][https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2026/jan/16/falcons-interview-former-raiders-coach-antonio]. ### Structure of the Falcons' Head Coaching Search 1. **Candidate Overview** - The Falcons have interviewed nine candidates for the head coaching position, with Antonio Pierce being the latest addition [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/falcons-complete-ninth-interview-head-190718960.html]. - Other candidates include former head coaches and current defensive coordinators, indicating a diverse search strategy [https://www.troyrecord.com/2026/01/16/falcons-interview-former-raiders-coach-antonio-pierce-for-head-coaching-job]. 2. **Antonio Pierce's Background** - Pierce served as the head coach of the Raiders from 2024 after initially joining as a linebackers coach in 2022 [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/falcons_interview_antonio_pierce_for_coaching_vacancy/s1_17049_43341928]. - His coaching record with the Raiders stands at 9 wins and 17 losses, which may raise questions about his effectiveness [https://apnews.com/article/atlanta-falcons-nfl-antonio-pierce-c9540f325df926ef05e058d20baa97db]. 3. **Role of Matt Ryan** - Matt Ryan, now the president of football operations for the Falcons, is playing a significant role in the head coaching search, leveraging his experience and connections from his previous career as a player [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/falcons-interview-antonio-pierce-friday-114759346.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Interview Candidates**: The Falcons have conducted interviews with a total of nine candidates, including: - Antonio Pierce (former Raiders head coach) - Mike McDaniel (former Dolphins head coach) - Kevin Stefanski (former Browns head coach) - Anthony Weaver (defensive coordinator, Miami) - Aden Durde (defensive coordinator, Seattle) [https://www.si.com/nfl/falcons/onsi/news/atlanta-falcons-take-defensive-turn-in-head-coaching-search]. - **Coaching Record**: Antonio Pierce's coaching record with the Raiders: - Wins: 9 - Losses: 17 [https://apnews.com/article/atlanta-falcons-nfl-antonio-pierce-c9540f325df926ef05e058d20baa97db]. ### Conclusion: The Path Forward for the Falcons In summary, the Atlanta Falcons are in the midst of a comprehensive search for a new head coach, with Antonio Pierce being a prominent candidate. The involvement of Matt Ryan as president of football operations adds a layer of strategic insight to the process. The team's approach includes a diverse range of candidates, reflecting a desire to find the right fit to lead the franchise forward. 1. **Current Status**: The Falcons have interviewed nine candidates, including Antonio Pierce. 2. **Candidate Evaluation**: Pierce's previous coaching record raises questions but also reflects experience in a challenging role. 3. **Leadership Dynamics**: Matt Ryan's involvement signifies a commitment to a thoughtful and informed selection process. The outcome of this search will be crucial for the Falcons as they aim to revitalize their performance in the upcoming seasons [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/falcons_interview_antonio_pierce_for_coaching_vacancy/s1_17049_43341928][https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2026/jan/16/falcons-interview-former-raiders-coach-antonio].