The Atlanta Falcons wrapped up their 2022 campaign with a victory over the Buccaneers, but the big news on Monday morning was defensive coordinator Dean Pees reportedly stepping down from his role with the team.
Pees informed his players that he would not return next season, and is holding a press conference to address his future. Watch Pees speak to the media below, as shared by ESPN’s Michael Rothstein.
Falcons DC Dean Pees on retiring pic.twitter.com/S4wCVlC5wU
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) January 9, 2023
Pees served two years as the Falcons defensive coordinator under head coach Arthur Smith. Atlanta will officially be the last stop for the 73-year-old, who has spent five full decades coaching football. Pees had another year left on his contract but said he wants to spend more time with his family.
The current favorite to replace him as defensive coordinator is Falcons inside linebackers coach Frank Bush.