"Per The Athletic's Josh Kendall, a Falcons source characterized the firing as performance-based, likely tied to the concerning lack of quality play and in-sync play for this receiving group thus far in 2025. Drops and odd routes have plagued this corps thus far in three games, and while injury has also been a significant factor, you'd be hard-pressed to argue that the receivers have looked great."
"That would be Ike Hilliard, the team's wide receivers coach since last year. You'll note it's the same Hilliard who was receivers coach in 2024, when Drake London surpassed 1,000 yards, Darnell Mooney nearly did, and Ray-Ray McCloud had a career year. That's a deeply surprising reversal of fortune three games into the 2025 season; if you were inclined to accuse the team of scapegoating a coach, I would be inclined to nod thoughtfully."
Atlanta's 2025 season has opened poorly: after a narrow loss to Tampa Bay and a primetime win over Minnesota, the Falcons were routed 30-0 by Carolina. Zac Robinson was moved to the sidelines, the team evaluated kickers, and receivers coach Ike Hilliard was fired. The dismissal was described by a source as performance-based, citing drops, odd routes, and a lack of synchronized play among receivers, with injuries also contributing. Hilliard previously played in the NFL and coached receivers since 2009, including success with the 2024 group. Hilliard is expected to find work, and the Falcons face ongoing offensive concerns.
Read at The Falcoholic
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