This announcement has left the Falcons with uncertainty regarding their coaching staff for the 2024 season.

Nielsen joined the Falcons prior to the 2023 season and played a key role in overseeing a remarkable turnaround for the team's defense. Despite losing Grady Jarrett, the heart and soul of the defensive unit, to a torn ACL early in the season, Nielsen guided the Falcons to their strongest defensive performance in years. The team recorded a total of 42 sacks, which was double the previous year's tally of 21, putting them in the middle third of the league rankings by season's end.

With this unexpected departure, the Falcons are now faced with the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for Nielsen. However, the search for a new defensive coordinator is currently on hold until the vacant head coach position is filled. Rumors have circulated that Matt Patricia is a potential candidate for the head coach role if Bill Belichick accepts the Falcons job. Patricia, who was previously with the Philadelphia Eagles, is now exploring other opportunities this offseason after his contract expired.

Nielsen's departure comes as a disappointment for many Falcons fans who were hoping that he would remain with the team despite the departure of former head coach Arthur Smith. Nevertheless, Falcons supporters wish him the best of luck in his new role with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

As the Falcons continue their search for a new defensive coordinator, the team's coaching staff for the 2024 season remains uncertain. Only time will tell who will be chosen to lead the Falcons' defense.