The Atlanta Falcons are making a bold move to solidify their future by hiring Raheem Morris as their new head coach. This decision is significant because Morris will be the first former NFL head coach owner Arthur Blank has hired in his over 20-year ownership tenure. The Falcons embarked on an extensive search that included 14 candidates, some of which were high-profile names like Bill Belichick and Jim Harbaugh. However, the Falcons ultimately decided to go back to their past and bring Morris back to the helm. This article explores the reasons behind this decision and what it means for the Falcons moving forward.
Raheem Morris previously served as the Falcons’ interim coach for 11 games in 2020 after the firing of Dan Quinn. Although Morris went 4-7 during his interim stint, he was not given the full-time job. Instead, the Falcons hired Arthur Smith. However, after Smith’s recent firing, the Falcons have decided to entrust Morris with the role of leading the team once again. This decision signals a return to Flowery Branch, Georgia, for Morris and a chance for him to prove himself as a capable head coach.
Raheem Morris brings a wealth of coaching experience to the Falcons organization. He spent the past three seasons as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, where he played a key role in winning a Super Bowl in 2021. Prior to his time with the Rams, Morris served as the head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2011, where he accumulated a record of 17-31. He also had coaching roles with Washington and the Falcons before his interim coaching stint in Atlanta. Morris’ diverse coaching background will likely contribute to his ability to lead and develop the Falcons’ roster effectively.
Building on a Solid Foundation
Morris inherits a Falcons team with several talented players on both sides of the ball. On defense, he will have the opportunity to work with second-team All-Pro safety Jessie Bates III, cornerback A.J. Terrell, and defensive lineman Grady Jarrett. These players provide a strong foundation for Morris to build a formidable defense. On the offensive side, Morris will have talented skill-position players such as tight end Kyle Pitts, receiver Drake London, and running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. Additionally, he will have the continuity of working with experienced offensive linemen Jake Matthews and Chris Lindstrom, who were with the Falcons during his previous stint.
The Quarterback Question
One of Morris’ priorities will be addressing the team’s quarterback situation. Taylor Heinicke and Desmond Ridder are currently on the roster, but owner Arthur Blank has expressed his dissatisfaction with the quarterback play last season. This dissatisfaction played a role in the firing of Arthur Smith. Morris will need to assess the available options and make a decision that will elevate the team’s performance in this crucial position. There is speculation that Rams quarterbacks/pass-game coordinator Zac Robinson will be a top candidate for Morris’ offensive coordinator role, signifying a potential collaboration between the two.
The hiring of Raheem Morris marks a new chapter for the Atlanta Falcons. By bringing in a former head coach with diverse experience, the Falcons are betting on Morris’ ability to lead and develop the team. Morris will have the opportunity to build upon a solid foundation of talented players and make strategic decisions that will shape the team’s future. As the Falcons embark on this new era, fans and stakeholders alike await eagerly to see how Morris will guide the team towards success.
The Atlanta Falcons’ decision to hire Raheem Morris as their head coach is a significant move for the franchise. Morris’ return to Flowery Branch and his diverse coaching background bring a fresh perspective and ample experience to the team. With a solid foundation of talented players and the opportunity to address the quarterback situation, Morris has the potential to lead the Falcons to new heights. As the team sets its sights on the future, the hiring of Morris signals a renewed sense of optimism for the Atlanta Falcons and their dedicated fan base.
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