Arthur Smith revamps Falcons’ coaching staff

FLOWERY BRANCH – Falcons coach Arthur Smith announced a revamped coaching staff Monday that included filling the void of three assistants fired after the 2022 season.

Secondary coach Jon Hoke, defensive line coach Gary Emanuel and outside linebackers coach Ted Monachino -- all original members of Smith’s inaugural 2021 staff -- where not retained. Hoke will be replaced with Steve Jackson, who was on the staff as a senior offensive assistant last season, and Jackson will work with new assistant head coach for defense Jerry Gray.

The Falcons named David Huxtable as a senior defensive assistant and Nick Perry was moved to assistant wide receivers coach from assistant defensive backs coach. Shawn Flaherty was named assistant offensive line coach, Lanier Goethie was named defensive front specialist after serving two years as a defensive assistant.

Offensive coordinator Dave Ragone will also coach the quarterbacks in 2023. Charles London, the team’s quarterbacks coach last season, left for the Titans where he was named quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator. There’s not a clear replacement for Monachino on the staff of new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, who replaced the retired Dean Pees.

Other moves include Bill Walsh Diversity coaching fellow/offensive line Mateo Kambui, offensive assistant Patrick Kramer, offensive assistant Steven King, special projects-defense Mario Jeberaeel, special teams assistant Matt Baker and football analyst Michael Gray.

Before joining the Falcons, Jackson was the Bengals secondary/cornerbacks coach (2020-21) and helped them reach Super Bowl LVI. He also has coached for the Jets (2018-19), Titans (2016-17), Lions (2013), Washington (2004-11) and the Bills (2001-03).

Jackson, 53, played for the Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans from 1991-99.