Atlanta Falcons Fire Defensive Coaches Lake, Rodgers

The Atlanta Falcons have fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and defensive line coach Jay Rodgers after a disappointing 2024 season, where the team finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year. Head coach Raheem Morris cited the need for change after a thorough evaluation, emphasizing that such decisions are difficult on a personal level. Lake joined the Falcons from the Los Angeles Rams and had previously been head coach at the University of Washington, while Rodgers came from the Los Angeles Chargers. The Falcons' defense struggled significantly, allowing the highest quarterback completion percentage in the NFL and finishing second to last in sacks. Following this decision, the Falcons are expected to seek a veteran hire to stabilize their coaching staff as they aim for improvement in the upcoming season. Morris expressed disappointment with the defense's performance, especially in critical late-game situations, indicating the urgency for a fresh direction.