The Atlanta Falcons are exploring options for their offensive coordinator position by scheduling an interview with Bryan McClendon, the wide receivers coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This development was reported by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports.
McClendon, who began his coaching career with the Georgia Bulldogs, has a strong connection to the region. After finishing his playing career as a wide receiver at Georgia, he worked his way up through the ranks of former head coach Mark Richt”s staff. His journey included roles as a graduate assistant in 2007, running backs coach in 2009, and ultimately becoming the assistant head coach, wide receivers coach, and pass-game coordinator by 2015. Notably, he served as the interim head coach during the 2015 TaxSlayer Bowl when Richt departed for the Miami Hurricanes.
In 2016, McClendon was hired by the South Carolina Gamecocks as their co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, later being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2018. However, after a disappointing season where the offense struggled significantly, he was demoted back to wide receivers coach at the end of 2019.
Following his time at South Carolina, McClendon joined the Oregon Ducks as the pass-game coordinator and wide receivers coach. He also had the opportunity to serve as interim head coach during the 2021 Alamo Bowl when Mario Cristobal left for Miami. Returning to Georgia in 2022, he contributed to the team”s national championship victory over the TCU Horned Frogs.
In 2024, the NFL recognized McClendon”s coaching prowess, leading to his hiring by the Buccaneers. His tenure in Tampa has been marked by success, particularly in the face of injuries to star receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. The 2025 first-round draft pick, Emeka Egbuka, emerged as a reliable target, while rookie Tez Johnson posted impressive stats with 322 yards and five touchdowns.
Last season, the Falcons faced significant challenges with their wide receiver depth. Drake London was the only receiver to surpass 500 yards in 2025, and with both he and Darnell Mooney sidelined at times due to injuries, the team had to turn to practice squad player David Sills V for crucial snaps. Following a loss to the Panthers, the Falcons dismissed wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard to address their coaching issues.
Despite efforts to improve, the Falcons finished the 2025 season ranked 24th in scoring offense, averaging only 20.8 points per game. After head coach Raheem Morris was let go, offensive coordinator Zac Robinson also parted ways with the team. As the Falcons consider their options, former Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees has emerged as a leading candidate for the role.
