The Atlanta Falcons’ search for their next general manager continues to take shape, and the latest name added to the list is a notable one. Josh Williams, the 49ers’ Director of Scouting and Football Operations, has officially interviewed for the GM vacancy in Atlanta, bringing with him nearly 15 years of experience inside one of the league’s most well-regarded front offices.
Williams has been a steady presence in San Francisco’s personnel department since 2011, when he got his start as a scouting assistant after graduating from Columbia. From there, he worked his way up the ladder - first as an area scout, then as a National Scout in 2022, before being promoted to his current role in 2024. That kind of long-term development within one organization speaks volumes, especially when that organization has consistently been in the playoff hunt and built one of the most balanced rosters in football.
The Falcons are casting a wide net in their GM search, and Williams joins a growing list of candidates who’ve either interviewed or are scheduled to do so. That list includes Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham, Panthers EVP Brandt Tilis, Lions COO Mike Disner, Steelers assistant GM Andy Weidl, Texans assistant GM James Liipfert, Eagles senior personnel director Joe Douglas, and Chiefs assistant GM Mike Bradway. Douglas and Bradway are both set to interview today, adding more intrigue to a process that’s clearly prioritizing a blend of experience and fresh perspective.
Williams’ candidacy isn’t just a one-off, either. He was a finalist for the Jaguars’ general manager position last offseason and currently has an interview lined up with the Dolphins. That kind of traction around the league suggests he’s firmly on the radar as a future GM, and Atlanta’s interest only reinforces that.
For the Falcons, this hire is pivotal. With a new head coach already in place and a roster that needs both short-term direction and long-term vision, the general manager selection will set the tone for the franchise’s next chapter. Williams’ background - a mix of scouting chops, front office experience, and time in a winning culture - makes him a compelling option.
We’ll keep a close eye on how things unfold in Atlanta as the interviews continue and the front office picture starts to come into focus.