NFL Rumors: Falcons Request Interview with Ravens DC Mike Macdonald

The Atlanta Falcons have requested to interview Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald for the team's current head coaching vacancy, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Former head coach Arthur Smith was fired following the Falcons' Week 18 loss to the New Orleans Saints, eliminating them from playoff contention. Atlanta finished with a record of 7-10, only good enough for third place in the NFC South.

Macdonald has already received interview requests from the Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders, Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Chargers.

Baltimore's defense has been a strength throughout the team's impressive 2023 season, culminating in a 13-4 record as well as the No. 1 seed in the AFC. The Ravens allowed just 16.5 points per game, the best mark in the NFL.

Baltimore's defense also recorded a league-best 60 sacks in the regular season, with three players recording at least 9 sacks. On the other hand, Atlanta took down opposing quarterbacks just 42 times in 2023.

Although Macdonald has interviews lined up with several teams, Falcons owner Arthur Blank told reporters on Monday that there is "no timetable" to determine Atlanta's next head coach.

"There is no timetable," Blank said, per Matt Urben of USA Today. "The only timetable is that we get it right, take our time, be thoughtful, do all the interviews, be respectful, make sure we have a full diverse slate of candidates that we're considering in every way."

The Falcons have expressed interest in several candidates since Smith's firing, most notably Bill Belichick following his mutual agreement to part ways with the New England Patriots. Dianna Russini of The Athletic revealed on Thursday that Atlanta has been "interested in landing Bill Belichick for weeks."

Even if Belichick isn't willing to join the Falcons, Macdonald has established himself as one of the premier defensive coaches in the NFL and could help the team become a contender once again.