The Falcons have hired Mike Nolan as their new defensive coordinator.

Nolan spent the past two seasons as the defensive coordinator of the Dolphins. He has also previously held that job with the Broncos, Ravens, Jets, Redskins and Giants, and was the 49ers' head coach in 2005-08.

"Mike Nolan is an established coordinator in this league," said Falcons head coach Mike Smith. "He brings more than 25 years of NFL experience to our team and has been a coordinator at this level for 14 years. Mike has a history of developing physically intimidating defensive units, and we are fortunate to have him join our staff."

Atlanta was in the market for a replacement for Brian VanGorder, who resigned last week to take the defensive coordinator job at Auburn University.

The Dolphins are still searching for a new head coach, and a couple of defensive-minded candidates have been interviewed, including Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer.