Falcons Interview Aden Durde for Head Coach Role

Georgia’s Atlanta Falcons are considering Aden Durde for their head coach position, recognizing his extensive experience and success in coaching. Durde is currently the defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, a role he assumed in 2024.

Aden Durde’s Coaching Journey

Durde joined the Seahawks alongside head coach Mike Macdonald, and together they achieved significant success. The Seahawks recorded a remarkable 14-3 season, clinching the NFC West title for the first time since 2020. This victory also marked Seattle’s return as the top seed in the NFC for the first time since 2014, setting a new franchise record with 14 wins in a single season.

Previous Experience and Achievements

• Defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks (2024-present)
• Coached the Dallas Cowboys at various roles between 2014-2023, including two stints as defensive line coach
• Led the Dallas defense to improved rankings, finishing 5th in defensive stats during his final season
• Previously worked in the BAFA National Leagues as a defensive coordinator for the London Warriors (2011-2016)

Durde’s familiarity with the Falcons is notable. He served as a coaching intern in 2016, then as a defensive assistant from 2018 to 2019, and as outside linebackers coach in 2020. This timeline overlaps with Jeff Ulbrich, the current defensive coordinator who previously served in the same role during Durde’s final year in Atlanta.

Connection to Current Falcons Players

The Falcons have made it a priority to strengthen their defense, especially their pass rush, where Durde has demonstrated solid results. His experience with young and developing talent is a valuable asset for the team. If hired, he would work with several promising players, including:

• Jalon Walker – First-round draft pick (2025, edge rusher)
• James Pearce Jr. – First-round draft pick (2025, edge rusher)
• Xavier Watts – Safety
• Billy Bowman Jr. – Cornerback
• Bradon Dorlus – Defensive lineman
• Ruke Orhorhoro – Defensive lineman

This young defensive core presents an excellent opportunity for a head coach like Durde, who has proven his ability to enhance defensive performances statistically. For instance, during his tenure with the Cowboys, the defense transitioned from 20th in sacks to competing for the top positions under his guidance.

Future Prospects

Falcons owner Arthur Blank has expressed that he will not instruct the new head coach on how to build the staff. Still, he has shown support for retaining Ulbrich to continue capitalizing on the defense’s recent improvements. As Durde is considered for the head coach role, his cumulative experience and success with previous teams position him as a strong candidate for the Falcons’ future ambitions.