The Atlanta Falcons have officially named Raheem Morris as their new head coach, bringing back a familiar face to lead the team. Morris, who served as the interim coach for the Falcons after Dan Quinn was fired in the 2020 season, was hired after an exhaustive search that included notable names like Bill Belichick. The 47-year-old Morris, who began his coaching career in 2002 and has had extensive experience in the league, including a stint as the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, emerged as the top candidate among the 14 interviewed by the Falcons.
Morris's hiring is historic for the Falcons, as he becomes the first non-interim Black head coach in franchise history. This move also contributes to the increasing diversity in head coaching positions, as there will now be at least nine minority head coaches to start the 2024 season, the most ever.
The Falcons' owner, Arthur Blank, expressed his enthusiasm for Morris and his belief that he is the right leader to guide the team into the future. Additionally, Blank announced a change in the leadership structure of the Falcons, with both Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot reporting directly to him instead of CEO Rich McKay.
Morris inherits a team that has undergone significant changes since his previous coaching stint in Atlanta. The Falcons have made key acquisitions in free agency and used their last three first-round picks on offensive players. However, the pressing matter at hand for the new coach is determining who will be the starting quarterback, an issue that plagued the Falcons under the previous regime.
Despite not being the big-name coach that some fans may have expected, Morris comes highly regarded by his former colleagues and those in the league. Les Snead, the general manager of the Los Angeles Rams, praised Morris for his impact on their team and his experience coaching both offense and defense. Snead believes Morris's collaborative approach gives any organization an edge that most teams won't be able to compete with.
The Falcons' decision to hire Morris came as somewhat of a surprise, given their earlier interest in renowned coach Bill Belichick and interviews with several up-and-coming assistants. However, Blank stated that Morris's time as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams helped convince the Falcons that he is the right person for the job.
With the hiring of Morris, the Falcons hope to turn the tide after six consecutive losing seasons and create a winning culture for the franchise. The new head coach will undoubtedly face high expectations from the fan base, which has grown increasingly apathetic in recent years. However, with his experience, energy, and collaborative approach, Morris aims to lead the Falcons into a successful future.
The NFL coaching cycle is not yet complete, with two coaching positions still available in Seattle and Washington. Morris's appointment adds to the growing diversity among head coaches in the league, as teams have made significant strides in increasing representation.
The Atlanta Falcons have placed their faith in Raheem Morris to revive the team and bring them back to their winning ways. Morris's extensive experience and strong reputation in the league make him a fitting choice for the franchise. As he takes the reins, Falcons fans eagerly await the start of a new era under their historic first non-interim Black head coach.
