The Atlanta Falcons are in the middle of another turning point, one that feels heavier than the usual offseason shuffle. After dismissing general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris, the organization is clearly aiming higher than a short-term fix. Owner Arthur Blank wants a full reset, one that reshapes how football decisions are made and how the franchise is perceived across the league.

At the center of that reset is a new role: president of football operations. Around the NFL, there is growing expectation that former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan could step into that position in the near future. The move would signal continuity with the franchise’s most successful era, but also a shift toward a more modern, streamlined structure.

While that executive hire is still pending, Atlanta’s attention has already drifted to the next head coach. And within league circles, one name keeps surfacing with increasing volume: John Harbaugh.

Blank did little to downplay the interest when asked publicly. He praised Harbaugh’s track record and confirmed the Falcons plan to speak with him once interviews begin. According to the owner, the only unknown is whether Harbaugh sees Atlanta as a destination worth exploring.

“[John Harbaugh] has won at every level, and so he would certainly be a candidate we would want to spend some time with. Whether or not he would have an interest in Atlanta, I don’t know. I read earlier today he’s not taking any interviews this week and probably will start this coming week, so I’m sure we’ll have him on our cycle, assuming he’s willing to take an interview with us.” – Arthur Blank

A proven coach with plenty of options for the Falcons

Harbaugh is expected to be one of the most sought-after candidates of the upcoming hiring cycle. Over 18 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, he posted a 180-113 regular-season record and went 13-11 in the playoffs, including a Super Bowl victory. Pro Football Reference ranks him among the most consistent winners of the modern era, a rsum that naturally attracts multiple suitors.

ESPN has reported that Harbaugh plans to take a measured approach to interviews, while NFL Network has noted that several franchises are preparing pitches centered on organizational control and long-term vision rather than quick wins.

That context matters for Atlanta. The Falcons do not currently offer the most stable roster or the clearest quarterback future. What they can offer is influence. A rebuilt front office, potential alignment with Ryan, and ownership willing to step back could be appealing to a coach who has spent nearly two decades commanding respect in Baltimore.

Atlanta knows the competition will be fierce. But this search is less about urgency and more about positioning. The Falcons are not rushing the process. They are setting the table and hoping that when John Harbaugh looks around the league, Atlanta feels like the right place to start something new.