Falcons Assistant Interviews With Browns And Cowboys, Declines Saints Request

"It was unfortunate the timing just wasn't right in terms of what we had going on here," Koger told Atlanta Falcons SI. "I had duties and responsibilities here that I wanted to go on. I made promises to the Falcons. So, it was bad timing more than anything else, man."

Koger would also say, "Never thought I'd be in a position where I'd be declining any interviews, especially with a guy I have so much respect for, but it was nothing more than bad timing."

Speaking of it not being about the rivalry, "I wish I could say I was that clever," Koger said. "But no, it was just more so the timing in which it happened. It just wasn't ideal for either side."

The Saints called with interest just over a month after Koger had already interviewed with the Cowboys and Browns. The Saints would ultimately fill the position with Doug Nussmeier, whom Koger had coached with for nine seasons at the University of Michigan. 

Koger was appreciative of his time spent with the two teams saying, "It's good, always, to get those opportunities and get those reps and got some constructive criticism in terms of areas I can improve to be better," Koger said. "I wouldn't get those reps if it weren't for the players and the guys here. So, very appreciative of being able to be put in that position, but there's more work to do."

Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson said that he believes Koger is ready to assume such a role as an offensive coordinator.

"Shoot, 'Koge' has been awesome," Robinson said. "Very lucky to be able to get him on staff last year, and I think he continues to ascend. It's awesome he got those opportunities. Look forward to him just taking even another step this season. He's got a great, big picture understanding of what's going on within the run game, the pass game.

"A tight end's coach, they got to know a lot. They got to know the run game inside and out from their position all the way down the line. They got to know the pass game details. So, I think Koger is on a great track, and we're definitely lucky to have him, he's a great coach."