Updated Jan. 23, 2026, 9:13 p.m. ET
The Atlanta Falcons interviewed Philadelphia Eagles senior personnel director Joe Douglas for their general manager vacancy on Friday, the team announced. Douglas, who previously served as the general manager of the New York Jets from 2019 to 2024, is the sixth candidate to interview for the job.
Despite assembling a talented roster during his five and half years in New York, Douglas was fired midway through the 2024 season. He helped bring in some key players during his tenure, including cornerback Sauce Gardner, wide receiver Garrett Wilson and defensive lineman Quinnen Williams.
The Jets also made some questionable moves under Douglas’ watch, like drafting quarterback Zach Wilson and not sticking with Sam Darnold long enough. Before landing the job with the Jets, Douglas spent four seasons as the Eagles vice president of player personnel.
Douglas served one year as the director of college scouting for the Chicago Bears in 2015. Prior to that, he spent 15 seasons with Baltimore Ravens as a scout from 2000-2014. The Falcons have now completed six interviews for their GM vacancy, but Douglas is the most experienced.
After firing Terry Fontenot, the team may look to bring on a more experienced candidate, so Douglas was at least worth a look. Atlanta also recently interviewed 49ers director of scouting and football Josh Williams, Chiefs assistant GM Mike Bradway and Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.Falcons’ completed GM interviews:Mike Bradway – Chiefs assistant GMJosh Williams – 49ers director of scouting/footballIan Cunningham – Bears assistant GMAndy Weidl: Steelers assistant GMJames Liipfert – Texans assistant GM
-Follow along with each interview and request using our LIVE Falcons GM tracker!
