Notable Players Coached by New Falcons Head Coach Kevin Stefanski
Kevin Stefanski has made a significant impact in the NFL, coaching several notable players throughout his career. As the new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, his history with key athletes has set the stage for potential success in Atlanta.
Notable Players Coached by Kevin Stefanski
Kirk Cousins – Quarterback
Stefanski served as the quarterbacks coach for the Minnesota Vikings during Cousins’ arrival in 2018. He later became the offensive coordinator, leading Cousins in a successful 2019 season where the team posted a 10-5 record and secured a playoff berth.
- Best Season: 2019, with 26 touchdowns and a Pro Bowl nomination.
- Current Status: Cousins currently plays for the Falcons, having signed a four-year deal in 2024.
Baker Mayfield – Quarterback
Mayfield joined the Cleveland Browns as the first overall pick in the 2018 draft. Under Stefanski, he had a breakout season in 2020, leading the team to its first playoffs since 2002.
- Best Season: 2020, with 36 touchdowns and an 11-5 regular-season record.
- Current Status: Mayfield moved to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023.
Nick Chubb – Running Back
Chubb, drafted in 2018, saw his production soar under Stefanski’s guidance. He notched over 1,000 rushing yards for three consecutive seasons.
- Best Season: 2022, with a career-high 1,525 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.
- Current Status: Chubb is now with the Houston Texans following a successful tenure with the Browns.
Amari Cooper – Wide Receiver
Cooper joined the Browns in 2022, where he excelled under Stefanski. He achieved back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons, marking a new chapter in his career.
- Best Season: 2023, with 1,250 receiving yards and a career-high nine touchdowns.
- Current Status: Cooper continues to impress, solidifying his role in the league.
Adam Thielen – Wide Receiver
Thielen joined the Vikings in 2014, flourishing under Stefanski’s early guidance. He became a key receiver, particularly during 2017 and 2018 seasons.
- Best Season: 2017, where he achieved 1,276 receiving yards and received a Pro Bowl nomination.
- Current Status: Thielen retired after a brief stint with the Vikings and the Steelers.
Honorable Mentions
- Joe Flacco – Quarterback, recorded Comeback Player of the Year in 2023.
- Dalvin Cook – Running back; first 1,000-yard season in 2019 with Stefanski.
- Stefon Diggs – Wide receiver; recorded his first 1,000-yard season in 2018.
- Kyle Rudolph – Tight end; was a Pro Bowler during his time under Stefanski.
- Joel Bitonio – Offensive guard; has made seven consecutive Pro Bowls since 2018.
Stefanski’s coaching history showcases his ability to elevate player performance. As he takes the helm of the Falcons, the experiences he gained from coaching notable players may inspire similar achievements in Atlanta.
