The Atlanta Falcons continue their methodical search for a new head coach, and their latest interview brings a rising defensive mind into the spotlight - Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter.
Minter, 42, has steadily built his résumé over nearly two decades in coaching, and his name is gaining serious traction in this year’s hiring cycle. The Falcons' interest in Minter adds another layer to what’s shaping up to be one of the more comprehensive coaching searches in the league.
Let’s take a look at where things currently stand for Atlanta. So far, the Falcons have interviewed or requested interviews with a mix of experienced head coaches and up-and-coming coordinators:
- Anthony Weaver (Dolphins DC) - Interviewed
- Klint Kubiak (Seahawks OC) - Interviewed
- Kevin Stefanski (Former Browns HC) - Interviewed
- Vance Joseph (Broncos DC) - Interview requested
- Robert Saleh (49ers DC) - Interview requested
- Aden Durde (Seahawks DC) - Interviewed
- Ejiro Evero (Panthers DC) - Interviewed
- Jeff Hafley (Packers DC) - Interviewed
- Mike McDaniel (Former Dolphins HC) - Interviewed
- John Harbaugh (Former Ravens HC) - Interviewed
- Antonio Pierce (Former Raiders HC) - Interview scheduled
- Jesse Minter (Chargers DC) - Interviewed
That’s a wide-ranging list, and it speaks to the Falcons’ intent to leave no stone unturned as they look to reset the direction of the franchise.
As for Minter, his coaching journey is one of steady progression. He got his start as a defensive intern at Notre Dame back in 2006, before working his way through the college ranks with stops at Cincinnati, Indiana State, and Georgia State. By 2017, he made the leap to the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens and was promoted to defensive backs coach in 2020 - a key role in one of the league’s most consistently strong defensive units.
Minter then returned to the college ranks for a brief but impactful stint. After a one-year run as Vanderbilt’s defensive coordinator in 2021, he took over the same role at Michigan, where he helped shape one of the top defenses in the country. That success led him back to the NFL in 2024, following Jim Harbaugh to the Chargers as DC.
The results in Los Angeles speak volumes. In 2025, Minter’s defense finished fifth in points allowed, ninth in total defense, eighth against the run, and fifth against the pass. That kind of balance and efficiency on both fronts is exactly what teams are looking for in a modern defensive leader - someone who can not only scheme but also adapt and elevate talent.
What makes Minter particularly intriguing is the blend of NFL and college experience, plus his recent success in transitioning from the college game back to the pros without missing a beat. That versatility is a valuable asset, especially in today’s league, where hybrid schemes and player development are more important than ever.
The Falcons are clearly casting a wide net, and Minter’s inclusion in this process is no surprise. He’s proven he can lead a defense, develop players, and adapt to different environments - all traits that align with the demands of a head coaching role. Whether he ultimately lands in Atlanta or elsewhere, Jesse Minter is a name to keep an eye on as the coaching carousel continues to spin.