Latest Update:Falcons announce completed interview with Mike Macdonald

The Atlanta Falcons have completed a virtual interview with Mike Macdonald for the organization’s head coach position, the team announced on Friday, Jan. 12.

This marks the first completed interview in Atlanta’s search to replace Arthur Smith, who was dismissed on Jan. 8

The 36-year-old defensive coordinator has a stellar track record calling plays for the University of Michigan and the Baltimore Ravens over the past three seasons. Macdonald has become a popular name during this hiring cycle.

Per NFL protocols, interviews with employees of other clubs must be conducted virtually prior to the conclusion of Divisional Playoff games on Sunday, Jan. 21. If the employer club has a Wild Card bye, virtual interviews must be conducted prior to the conclusion of Wild Card games. If the employer club is a Wild Card participant, virtual interviews may begin three days after its Wild Card game and must be conducted prior to the conclusion of Divisional Playoff games.

Beginning Monday, Jan. 22, clubs may conduct in-person or virtual interviews with candidates who are employed by other NFL clubs whose seasons have concluded and are prohibited from conducting initial interviews with candidates who are employed by clubs participating in the Conference Championship Games until the conclusion of the employer club’s season