Updated Jan. 8, 2026, 7:21 p.m. ET<\/p>\n
The Atlanta Falcons<\/a> have started their interview process, formally speaking with Detroit Lions<\/a> chief operating officer Mike Disner for their newly created president of football position on Thursday. Disner has spent the last seven seasons working in the Lions front office.<\/p>\n Prior to taking over as Detroit’s COO in 2022, Disner served as the team’s Senior Vice President of Football and Business Administration from 2019-2021. The Lions have turned things around over the last few seasons, ending a 30-year division title drought back in 2023.<\/p>\n The Falcons are widely expected to hire Matt Ryan<\/a> for the position, and it’s been reported that they will speak with him on Thursday or Friday. Team owner Arthur Blank discussed the president of football role during his Thursday press conference.<\/p>\n Blank wants this position to work closely with the new head coach and general manager to put the best product on the field.<\/p>\n “Our new head coach and general manager will report to the new president of football, and they will work collaboratively as a football leadership team on all football decisions,” Blank explained in a statement<\/a>. “Final decision-making authority will rest with the president of football.”<\/p>\n Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.<\/a><\/p>\n