Lake’s future seemed tenuous when head coach Raheem Morris was critical of the defensive effort in the season-ending loss to Carolina.

In an official team announcement, the Atlanta Falcons announced they had parted ways with first year defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake. "After a thorough evaluation of the season, and with careful consideration for our team's future,

The Atlanta Falcons have fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake after one season with the franchise, the team announced Saturday. Along with Lake, the club has also let go of defensive line coach Jay Rodgers.

The Falcons have fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake after the team allowed the second-most touchdown passes in the NFL and had the second-fewest sacks.

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons have conducted a virtual interview with Michigan defensive coordinator Wink Martindale as they began their search to replace Jimmy Lake, who was fired as defensive coordinator following the team’s 8-9 season.

The Atlanta Falcons fired defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake after one season, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported on Saturday afternoon. Head coach Raheem Morris left the door open for potential coaching changes during his Monday press conference. Morris was non-committal when asked if the team would retain Lake as defensive coordinator.

Atlanta's defensive struggles might continue as the Falcons reportedly target an unexpected candidate for their vacant defensive coordinator position.