The Atlanta Falcons may have locked in Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach, but when it comes to the rest of the coaching staff, continuity seems to be the name of the game-at least for now. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is staying put, and the team recently blocked an interview request from the 49ers for secondary coach Justin Hood, a clear sign of how highly Atlanta values his presence on the staff.
But that sense of stability could soon be tested.
According to Jeremy Fowler, the Tennessee Titans have submitted a request to interview Falcons defensive pass-game coordinator Mike Rutenberg for their open defensive coordinator role. It’s a move that could have ripple effects for both franchises.
Rutenberg brings a deep connection to new Titans head coach Robert Saleh, having previously worked alongside him with the New York Jets, where Rutenberg coached the linebackers. That familiarity isn’t just a footnote-it’s a key factor as Saleh looks to build a staff he trusts for his second shot at leading an NFL team. For Tennessee, bringing in someone who already understands Saleh’s defensive philosophy could fast-track the implementation of his system.
For Atlanta, though, this is more than just a potential staff shuffle.
Rutenberg played a pivotal role in shaping a Falcons pass defense that showed real signs of growth last season. While Ulbrich is the architect of the defense, it’s coaches like Rutenberg who bring the blueprint to life on the field.
His fingerprints were all over the secondary’s improved communication, technique, and overall cohesion in coverage. Losing him wouldn’t necessarily derail the defense, but it would certainly create a gap that’s not so easy to fill.
This is where things get tricky for the Falcons. If Rutenberg does take the job in Tennessee, Atlanta will need to act fast-and smart-to keep the secondary on track. That means Ulbrich and Stefanski will need to identify someone who not only understands the current system but can also continue to develop a unit that’s been trending in the right direction.
On the surface, it might look like a manageable loss. But in reality, replacing a coach like Rutenberg isn’t just about plugging in another name. It’s about maintaining the momentum that’s been building within this defense-something that doesn’t always show up in the box score but makes a world of difference on Sundays.
So while the Falcons aren’t overhauling their staff just yet, Rutenberg’s potential departure is a storyline worth watching. It’s a reminder that in the NFL, even the smallest coaching changes can have big-time consequences.