Falcons Fire WR Coach, Move OC to Sideline

After a 30-0 loss to Carolina, the Atlanta Falcons fired wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard and moved offensive coordinator Zac Robinson from the coaches’ box to the sideline to improve communication with QB Michael Penix Jr. The team promoted passing-game coordinator T.J. Yates to coach the wide receivers. In the loss Penix completed 18 of 36 passes for 172 yards with two interceptions, including a pick-six; head coach Raheem Morris said Penix remains the starter despite inconsistent early performances. Falcons officials cited headset technical problems, miscommunication and slow play-calling — issues they hope Robinson can address more quickly from the sideline — and noted no Falcons wide receiver has yet recorded a touchdown while Bijan Robinson leads the team in receiving. The moves come amid a disappointing 1-2 start as the club looks to improve scoring and execution.