The Atlanta Falcons have parted ways with defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and defensive line coach Jay Rodgers following a disappointing season marked by significant defensive struggles. Lake, who joined the Falcons from the Los Angeles Rams with head coach Raheem Morris, spent only one year with the team. Morris expressed regret about the firings but emphasized the necessity of these moves after reviewing the team's performance.

Atlanta concluded the season with an 8-9 record, narrowly missing the playoffs despite a promising 6-3 start. A Week 18 overtime defeat to the Carolina Panthers, where the defense conceded 44 points, underscored the challenges the team faced. Morris was visibly upset with the defensive performance, particularly highlighting issues such as the highest quarterback completion percentage allowed in the league and a troubling lack of sacks.