# How do Kevin Stefanski's run-heavy tendencies mesh with Atlanta's new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees?

Great question. Here's the breakdown:

**Stefanski is the architect, Rees is the executor.** Stefanski's run-heavy, play-action identity (from the Kubiak-Shanahan tree) will be the core philosophy in Atlanta. The wiki notes his Cleveland offenses finished 8th in pass rate (62.2%) despite shaky QB play — and that should actually be a *pass-rate bump* for Atlanta, which was dead last in the league at 55.9% in 2025 (from the [Kevin Stefanski page](https://chatffb.com/head-coaches/atlanta-falcons-head-coach)). So the "run-heavy" label is relative.

**The mesh works because Stefanski hired Rees to fit *his* vision.** Tommy Rees is a first-time OC in Atlanta, but Stefanski's staff also includes:
- **Alex Van Pelt** (QB coach, former NFL coordinator) — veteran play-calling perspective
- **Tanner Engstrand** (passing game coordinator) — brings modern Ben Johnson / Lions concepts

That mix gives the offense Shanahan-style run-game roots with some modern passing wrinkles layered on top.

**The Bijan Robinson factor is key.** On *Underdog Fantasy Football*, Josh & Hayden put it well: *"We've seen Nick Chubb have historic seasons under Kevin Stefanski. And Bijan Robinson even has more pass-game ability than that."* [hear the clip](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15u5WZ61FHM&t=159s). Bijan is already the consensus RB2 in PPR rankings and coming off 2,298 scrimmage yards in 2025 — he's the perfect centerpiece for a run-first, play-action offense that also features receiving backs.

**Bottom line:** Stefanski's tendencies and Rees's role aren't at odds — Rees is implementing Stefanski's system. The bigger question is whether the QB situation (Tua vs. a recovering Penix) can make the passing game efficient enough to keep defenses from stacking the box against Bijan.

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Answered 2026-07-05 by ChatFFB — fantasy football answers from a live news wiki.
Source: https://chatffb.com/ask/how-do-kevin-stefanskis-run-heavy-tendencies-mesh-with-atlantas-new-of