The Atlanta Falcons have made a significant adjustment to their coaching staff, which directly affects rising quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
Atlanta has promoted T.J. Yates to passing game coordinator and D.J. Williams to quarterbacks coach, according to a news statement issued Thursday.
Last season, Yates worked closely with quarterback Kirk Cousins during meetings, whereas Williams spent more time with Penix. Yates stated that the group had to manage various tasks at different times but always had healthy conversations.
Williams and Penix grew closer as a result of their shared responsibilities.
“D.J. is absolutely awesome,” Yates stated in the lead-up to Week 14. “He helps Mike a lot. He’s been an incredible help – it’s like having two quarterback coaches in the room with D.J., who has years of experience with Drew Brees and other quarterbacks.”
Williams is the son of Super Bowl-winning quarterback Doug Williams and played quarterback from 2011 to 2014 at Grambling State University, drawing starts in each
Yates worked closely with quarterbacks last season before obtaining NFL tryout opportunities in 2015.
From 2019 to 23, the younger Williams worked as an offensive assistant for the New Orleans Saints.
Yates, meanwhile, has served in a number of capacities on the Falcons’ staff over the last four seasons. He was Atlanta’s pass game specialist in 2021 and receivers coach from 2022 to 2023 before returning to coach quarterbacks, where he previously played professionally.
Now, the Falcons will continue forward with Yates handling the complexities of their aerial attack, while Williams, with his closer links to Penix, will handle the day-to-day operations.
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