Atlanta Falcons Fire Coach After 'Concerning' Rape Allegations

LaTroy Lewis was dismissed just two weeks after being hired by the NFL team.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Atlanta Falcons have fired assistant defensive line coach LaTroy Lewis following 'deeply concerning' accusations of rape during his time coaching at the University of Michigan. The team stated they are in the process of gathering information about the allegations.

Why it matters

The allegations against Lewis raise serious concerns about his conduct and the vetting process used by the Falcons in hiring him. The case also highlights the ongoing issue of sexual assault allegations in college and professional sports.

The details

A woman has accused Lewis of raping and physically assaulting her in separate incidents when he was an assistant coach at the University of Michigan. She reportedly shared her concerns with then-Michigan coach Sherrone Moore, who allegedly dismissed the allegations and even offered Lewis a raise. The Ann Arbor Police Department has launched an investigation into the alleged December 2024 sexual assault incident.

  • In November 2024, Lewis allegedly sent the woman threatening text messages.
  • In December 2024, Lewis is accused of physically and sexually assaulting the woman at a hotel in Ann Arbor.
  • In January 2025, the woman documented injuries sustained during a second alleged incident of physical violence after Lewis traveled to her apartment.

The players

LaTroy Lewis

A 32-year-old former assistant defensive line coach for the Atlanta Falcons who has been accused of rape and physical assault during his time at the University of Michigan.

Sherrone Moore

The former University of Michigan head football coach who allegedly dismissed the woman's allegations against Lewis and even offered him a raise.

Ann Arbor Police Department

The law enforcement agency that has launched an investigation into the alleged December 2024 sexual assault incident involving LaTroy Lewis.

Paul Corliss

The University of Michigan assistant Vice President of Public Affairs who called the allegations against Lewis 'deeply concerning' and said the university has launched an investigation.

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What they’re saying

“The University launched an investigation of the circumstances and conduct leading to Sherrone Moore's firing, as well as a broader culture review of the Athletic Department.”

— Paul Corliss, University of Michigan Assistant VP of Public Affairs (University of Michigan)

What’s next

The Ann Arbor Police Department's investigation into the alleged sexual assault incident remains active and ongoing. The University of Michigan has also launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Sherrone Moore's firing and a broader review of the athletic department's culture.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual assault allegations in college and professional sports, and the need for thorough vetting and accountability measures to prevent such incidents from occurring. It also raises questions about the handling of these allegations by university and team officials.