Falcons owner Arthur Blank has already hired two head coaches. With Bobby Petrino heading for the exit door with three games left in the season, Blank is about to do it again.

Here's a look at early list of candidates to replace Petrino:

Bill Cowher

The former Pittsburgh coach would instill instant credibility to the franchise and be able to flash a Super Bowl in the locker room.

Mike Martz

An offensive mastermind, who could re-tool the offense. Is a bit quirky, but he too, has a Super Bowl ring.

Mike Zimmer

Falcons and longtime Dallas defensive coordinator. His unit has fallen off lately, but he's intense and knowledgeable.

Jason Garrett

Dallas' offensive coordinator is considered one of the top offensive minds in the league.

Ron Rivera

Defensive coordinator with San Diego. Was interviewed last season by the Falcons.

The others

Former NFL head coaches: Chan Gailey, Steve Mariucci

NFL assistants: Mike Singletary, Rob Chudzinski

College coaches: Sylvester Croom, Jeff Tedford, Kirk Ferentz, Pete Carroll