Falcons fire defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and defensive line coach Jay Rodgers after one season

The Atlanta Falcons have fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and defensive line coach Jay Rodgers after just one season. This decision follows a disappointing season finale where the Falcons' defense struggled against the Carolina Panthers. Head coach Raheem Morris had previously criticized the team's defensive performance, indicating a need for evaluation. Lake, who joined the Falcons after serving as an assistant with the Los Angeles Rams, oversaw a defense that ranked poorly in several key metrics. The Falcons are now considering potential replacements for Lake, including former Jets head coach Robert Saleh and former defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, both of whom have ties to the team.