Florida State OC Alex Atkins linked to vacant head coaching position

Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins is a potential candidate at Charlotte, according to a report.

Atkins was mentioned by The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman in a story about candidates for that job on Sunday afternoon. The 49ers p

arted ways with Will Healey earlier in the day.

Atkins has ties to Charlotte, as he served as the program’s offensive coordinator in 2019 before leaving for Florida State’s offensive line job.

Here’s some analysis from Feldman about why Atkins might be a good fit:

Atkins, 38, has been a key piece in Florida State going in the right direction after the program had fallen apart. He was integral in rebuilding what was a dreadful O-line when he showed up. He spent one season (2019) at Charlotte as the O-line coach/offensive coordinator and helped lead the program to its first bowl game in school history. He has a strong connection to the place but also is attractive because of how respected he is inside the business. Atkins seems like a very solid option for this program considering it’s gone 8-18 since he moved on to Florida State.

Coincidence or not, Charlotte’s issues started after Aktins left for Tallahassee. After making a bowl game in 2019, the 49ers are set to miss the postseason for the third straight year.

Florida State’s offense has made significant strides this season, and is a big reason why the Noles started the year with a 4-0 record. Quarterback Jordan Travis, specifically, has been much-improved in his one season playing for Atkins.

If Atkins does leave after this season, it would mean three offensive coordinators in three years for the Noles. Atkins replaced Kenny Dillingham this past offseason, who took the Oregon OC job.

Florida State hosts Georgia Tech this weekend.