The Falcons are casting a wide net in their head coaching search, and their latest interview brings a familiar name back into the spotlight: Antonio Pierce.
Atlanta confirmed on Friday that it completed an interview with Pierce, who most recently served as the Raiders' head coach during the 2024 season. Pierce’s rise through the coaching ranks has been anything but conventional, but it’s also been marked by leadership, grit, and a knack for connecting with players - qualities that could resonate with a Falcons team looking for a new identity.
Pierce took over as the Raiders’ full-time head coach after initially stepping in as interim in 2023. That stint came after two seasons as the team’s linebackers coach, where he quickly earned respect in the locker room and throughout the organization. His promotion to head coach was a nod to the culture shift he helped spark in Las Vegas - a team that had been searching for stability and toughness.
Before his NFL coaching chapter, Pierce spent four years at Arizona State, where he wore a lot of hats: linebackers coach, recruiting coordinator, co-defensive coordinator, and eventually associate head coach. His time in the college ranks helped him build a foundation as a defensive mind and a motivator - skills that translated well when he made the jump to the pros.
And of course, Pierce brings with him the pedigree of a former NFL linebacker who played nine seasons in the league. He suited up for Washington from 2001 to 2004, then moved on to the Giants, where he became a key figure in their Super Bowl XLII run. His on-field experience gives him a unique perspective - he’s been in the trenches and knows what it takes to win at the highest level.
Pierce isn’t the only candidate the Falcons are considering. They’ve already interviewed a number of high-profile names, including Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, Seahawks offensive coordinator Klink Kubiak, and Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde. Former head coaches like Kevin Stefanski, John Harbaugh, and Mike McDaniel have also been in the mix, along with Packers DC Jeff Hafley and Chargers DC Jesse Minter.
With a wide range of candidates spanning offensive and defensive backgrounds - and varying levels of head coaching experience - it’s clear the Falcons are keeping their options open. Pierce’s blend of NFL playing experience, coaching versatility, and locker room leadership makes him an intriguing possibility. Whether Atlanta sees him as the right fit remains to be seen, but his name is firmly in the conversation.