Falcons tight ends coach Mike Mularkey has announced his retirement from the NFL. Mularkey has twice been a coach with the Falcons, once as offensive coordinator from 2008-2011 and again as tight ends coach in 2019.

"I've been blessed to do this for a long time and have a lot of great memories from the game I love," Mularkey said. "I've also missed a lot of time with my family who I love and who has supported me so much throughout my career. I am looking forward to spending even more time with them and making even more memories." 

Under Mularkey, Falcons tight end Austin Hooper enjoyed a career season in 2019, catching 75 passes for 787 yards and six touchdowns. As an offensive coordinator, Mularkey orchestrated a Falcons offense that finished No. 2 in the league in rushing in 2008 and reached the playoffs in three of his four seasons with the team.

"What an awesome career for Mike," coach Dan Quinn said. "When you look back at his 25-year coaching career, you'll not only see a great coach, but you'll also see an unbelievable human being and leader. Mike has been a great asset for our organization and for me personally. We wish he and his family well and congratulate him on a well-deserved retirement."

Mularkey also played tight end in the NFL from 1983-1991 as a member of the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers. He caught 102 passes for 1,222 yards and nine touchdowns throughout his career.