The Atlanta Falcons had one of the most perplexing offseasons last year. After signing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins to a significant extension, they went on to draft quarterback Michael Penix Jr. from Washington in the first round of the NFL draft. The results were predictably disappointing with Atlanta finishing the year 8-9 and missing the playoffs. Now, the organization is aiming to retool its staff to get back on track.
In alignment with that goal, the Falcons announced two official hires on Friday: “We have named Mike Rutenberg and Nate Ollie to the defensive coaching staff,” the organization shared via their official Twitter account.
We have named Mike Rutenberg and Nate Ollie to the defensive coaching staff
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) January 24, 2025
Fans expressed their reactions on social media. One fan remarked, “Jets LB coach and Texans DL coach…idk. I won’t get excited about any off-season move until it proves to make a change in game.” Another added, “New uniforms please give us something to be excited about,” indicating a desire for inspiration after what he viewed as underwhelming hires. A third comment read, “Who cares we will never be a good team as long as Arthur Blank is the owner.” It remains to be seen if these new coaching additions will improve the Falcons’ defense and better support Penix in the upcoming season.
