The Atlanta Falcons are turning the page with a new head coach in Kevin Stefanski, and as is often the case with a fresh regime, the staff is getting a makeover. Stefanski steps into this role with a clean slate and a chance to reshape a roster that’s shown flashes of potential but hasn't quite found its rhythm in recent years. And now, he’s assembling a coaching staff that reflects both experience and upside.
Let’s start with what we know: Jeff Ulbrich is staying on as defensive coordinator, providing some continuity on that side of the ball. On offense, Stefanski has brought in Tommy Rees as the new offensive coordinator-a move that signals a shift in philosophy and perhaps a new identity for a unit that’s been searching for consistency.
But it’s the latest additions that are quietly intriguing.
Craig Aukerman Joins as Special Teams Coordinator
The Falcons have hired Craig Aukerman to lead their special teams, a move that may not grab headlines but could pay dividends in the margins-the kind of area where games are often won or lost. Aukerman brings years of experience and a reputation for fielding disciplined, high-effort units. Special teams often don’t get the spotlight, but in a league where field position and hidden yardage matter, this could be a sneaky-good hire.
Robert Prince Brings Proven WR Pedigree to Atlanta
Perhaps the most compelling addition is Robert Prince, who’s been named the Falcons’ new wide receivers coach. Prince comes over from Miami, following Aukerman, and he brings with him a track record of working with some of the league’s most dynamic wideouts.
We’re talking about names like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and CeeDee Lamb. That’s not just experience-it’s elite experience. Prince has held the same role with the Dolphins, Cowboys, Texans, and Lions over the past several years, and in each stop, he’s been tasked with developing talent and maximizing production from the wide receiver room.
Now, he gets to work with Drake London and a young Falcons receiving corps that’s still finding its identity. London, in particular, has shown glimpses of being a true No. 1 option, and under Prince’s guidance, he has a real shot at taking that next step.
This hire doesn’t just benefit London, though. It sets a tone for the entire group.
With Bijan Robinson already giving Atlanta a legitimate weapon in the backfield, the passing game needs to evolve if this offense is going to keep up in today’s NFL. That means developing chemistry, refining route trees, and getting more out of the WR depth chart.
Why This Matters for Stefanski’s Offense
Kevin Stefanski’s system is built on balance, precision, and play-action efficiency. For it to work, the passing game has to complement the run game-not just exist alongside it.
That means receivers need to block, run crisp routes, and create separation. Prince’s history suggests he can coach that up.
The Falcons aren’t just adding names to fill out a coaching staff-they’re bringing in voices with proven track records, guys who’ve worked with elite talent and know what it takes to succeed at the highest level. That matters, especially for a team trying to reset its culture and build something sustainable.
There’s still a long way to go before we see how all the pieces fit together on the field. But with Stefanski at the helm and coaches like Aukerman and Prince joining the fold, the Falcons are clearly focused on building a staff that can teach, develop, and elevate. And in a league where the margins are razor-thin, those kinds of hires can make all the difference.