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Falcons Shift Coaching Duties as T.J. Yates Takes Over Wide Receivers

By Yakiri Thomas / September 23, 2025

 

The Atlanta Falcons announced Monday that Passing Game Coordinator T.J. Yates will assume responsibilities of coaching wide receivers following the release of Ike Hilliard from the staff.

Yates, a familiar face in Atlanta’s coaching ranks, first joined the organization on Jan. 30, 2021. He spent his initial season as passing game specialist before moving into the wide receivers coach role for the 2022 and 2023 campaigns. In 2024, Yates transitioned to quarterbacks coach, later earning a promotion to passing game coordinator on Feb. 13, 2024.

A former NFL quarterback with seven pro seasons under his belt, Yates has quickly built a reputation as a versatile and well-regarded teacher on staff. His return to the receivers room brings continuity to a group adjusting to a midseason coaching change.

Hilliard, who had been with the Falcons since 2023, exits after less than two full seasons overseeing the wide receivers unit.

With Yates taking on dual responsibilities as passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach, the Falcons are banking on his experience across multiple offensive positions to steady the unit and maintain cohesion heading into the heart of the season.

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