Falcons Request Interview With 49ers Exec Josh Williams

"Atlanta is expected to hire Matt Ryan as its president of football operations, but the team is required to interview other candidates for the role first. That may include 49ers director, scouting and football operations Josh Williams. The Falcons have requested a meeting with Williams, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. The Falcons are the second team to show interest in the 38-year-old Williams since the regular season ended Sunday."

"Williams was a finalist for the Jaguars' GM job a year ago. They interviewed him twice before hiring James Gladstone instead. After finishing as a runner-up to Gladstone, Williams stayed in San Francisco's John Lynch-led front office this year. Since joining the 49ers in 2011, Williams has garnered significant experience as a scout. In his current position, he "directs pro and college scouting efforts, supports player development, and assists in contract negotiations," according to the 49ers' website."

"Williams could follow former Lynch assistants Martin Mayhew, Ran Carthon and Adam Peters in earning a major promotion elsewhere, but landing the Atlanta gig looks like a long shot. Barring an unexpected change of heart from owner Arthur Blank or Ryan, the former quarterback appears to be a near-lock for president of football ops duties. At minimum, interviewing Williams would help the Falcons satisfy the Rooney Rule."

Atlanta plans to hire Matt Ryan as president of football operations but must interview other candidates first, potentially including 49ers executive Josh Williams. The Falcons requested a meeting with Williams, who has drawn interest from other teams, including the Dolphins, and was a Jaguars GM finalist last year. Williams has worked in the 49ers front office since 2011, building scouting and personnel experience and assisting with player development and contract negotiations. Landing Atlanta’s role appears unlikely given Ryan’s expected hiring, though interviewing Williams would satisfy the Rooney Rule and Williams could be considered for Atlanta’s GM job.

Read at Pro Football Rumors