By Moses Joshua 
An unassuming interview just turned into a league-wide signal that one of Detroit’s most important architects may be on the fast track to a front-office throne.
From Quiet Interview to Front-Office Bombshell
What initially looked like a routine executive meeting quickly became something much bigger for the Detroit Lions.
According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini, Lions executive Mike Disner’s recent sit-down with the Atlanta Falcons was not limited to their vacant team president role. Russini reported that the Falcons interviewed Disner alongside Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham, Panthers executive Brandt Tilis, and 49ers director of scouting Josh Williams — and that those discussions also “served as GM interviews.”
That phrasing is the key. Atlanta wasn’t simply window-shopping. They were actively evaluating Disner as potential general manager material.
For a Lions organization that has worked hard to build continuity after years of front-office turnover, that’s a development worth monitoring closely.
Why the League Is Suddenly Circling Mike Disner
Disner isn’t a household name among casual fans, but inside NFL circles, he’s become a respected figure in Detroit’s resurgence.
Working closely with Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell, Disner has been involved in roster construction, long-term planning, and the structural reboot that helped pull the franchise out of its post-Patricia spiral. Russini noted that Disner was described as “tremendous” and “polished” throughout the Falcons’ process — praise that doesn’t get handed out lightly during executive interviews.
This isn’t just about one meeting. It’s confirmation that league offices view Disner not merely as a support executive, but as a legitimate candidate to run football operations at the highest level.
Matt Ryan Gets the Job — But the Door Isn’t Locked
Atlanta ultimately hired former NFL MVP Matt Ryan as its new team president, seemingly shutting the door on Disner for now. But the revelation that his interview doubled as a general manager evaluation changes the narrative.
If the Falcons were willing to consider him for a GM seat, it’s a near certainty that other franchises will soon follow. Executive hiring season tends to snowball, and once a name hits the rumor mill with credibility attached, it rarely fades quietly.
What It Means for Detroit Going Forward
For the moment, the Lions can exhale.
Disner remains in Detroit, still part of the front-office trio that has helped rebuild a culture Dan Campbell proudly calls his own. But the clock is ticking. The more Detroit’s reputation grows, the harder it becomes to keep every key architect in the building.
The Lions have finally built something sustainable — and now, the rest of the league is taking notes.