The Atlanta Falcons have decided to make an early-season change in their coaching staff by parting ways with wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard. This marks an unexpected shift, as Hilliard was in only his second season with the team in this role. The team has announced that T.J. Yates, currently serving as the pass-game coordinator, will step into the role.
Hilliard, a former NFL wide receiver, transitioned to coaching and has amassed 13 years of experience across various teams since beginning his coaching journey in 2011. His coaching stints included positions with the Dolphins, Bills, Washington, Steelers, and most recently, the Falcons. Despite a varied coaching career, he is perhaps best remembered for his on-field exploits with the New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, having been drafted seventh overall in 1997.
The decision to replace Hilliard follows a disappointing 30-0 loss to the previously winless Carolina Panthers. This result may have influenced the Falcons’ decision, although it remains uncertain whether Hilliard’s dismissal is solely performance-related. Under his guidance last season, wide receiver Drake London notably excelled with a 1,271-yard season. However, this year, London’s performance has seen a decline, accumulating only 159 receiving yards in the first three games. Moreover, no other Atlanta receiver has surpassed 70 receiving yards so far this year.
The timing of this change suggests the Falcons are actively looking to adjust their strategies in hopes of revitalizing their offense, particularly the receiving corps. With Yates taking over, the team hopes to find a new dynamic in their passing game as the season progresses.