Additional contenders for the Falcons’ head coaching role have surfaced. Atlanta has asked for a second interview with Ravens staff members Mike Macdonald and Anthony Weaver, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. source 
Since the Ravens have made it to the AFC title game, members of their coaching staff are not available for interviews this week. However, once they are free, they will be able to meet with the Falcons in person as the search for an Arthur Smith replacement continues. While the main candidate in this regard remains Bill Belichick, nothing is certain at this time.
Even though the team has already interviewed Belichick twice, Atlanta plans to conduct an extensive search. The six-time Super Bowl winner is being considered along with Jim Harbaugh, who have both received in-person evaluations from Atlanta. As free agent coaches, they are not subject to the NFL’s employment rules. Nonetheless, Atlanta still needs to satisfy the Rooney Rule, which will be the case after the team interviews Weaver and another external minority candidate for the second time.
While Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is the favorite to win a second MVP award, Baltimore’s defense has played a significant role in the team’s success this season. The unit led the league in sacks, takeaways (tied) and points allowed, a feat never before accomplished in NFL history. As a result, there is considerable interest in Macdonald, in particular, for a head coaching position.
The 36-year-old returned to the Ravens last year after a single season as Michigan’s DC. His three total years as a play-caller limit his experience compared to other candidates, but he has garnered interest from teams like the Panthers, Chargers, Seahawks, Titans, and Commanders. A strong showing in the postseason has undoubtedly increased Macdonald’s value.
The same holds true for Weaver, who interviewed with the Commanders for their head coaching vacancy. His NFL coaching career dates back to 2012, and he has extensive experience as a D-line coach. The 43-year-old has also worked as a coordinator once (with the Texans in 2020), and for the past two seasons, he has held the title of associate head coach with the Ravens.
If they can replicate their performances this week against the Chiefs, both Macdonald and Weaver are expected to be highly sought after. After that game, they will be free to speak with the Falcons or any other teams seriously considering them for a head coaching role.
