Raheem Morris to Return as Head Coach of the Atlanta Falcons

Raheem Morris is set to make a return to the sidelines, this time as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. According to reports from the NFL Network, Morris, who served as the Los Angeles Rams‘ defensive coordinator over the past three seasons, is expected to be hired as the new head coach of the Falcons. This will be Morris’ second chance as a full-time head coach, following his previous stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

During his time with the Rams, Morris played a crucial role in leading the team’s Super Bowl-winning defense in the 2021 season. Now, he will become the first Black full-time head coach in the Atlanta Falcons’ history, as he takes over the reins from Arthur Smith, who had been let go after three consecutive 7-10 seasons.

Morris has a wealth of coaching experience in the NFL, having served as the head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2011. He also spent a season as the Falcons’ defensive coordinator and later as their interim head coach in 2020. After an extensive search that involved more than a dozen candidates, the Falcons ultimately chose Morris as their new head coach, passing on the opportunity to pursue legendary coach Bill Belichick, who recently parted ways with the New England Patriots.

The Falcons will be counting on Morris to lead their team back to the postseason, after a six-season drought. He will be arriving in Atlanta to find a defense that significantly improved during the 2023 season, ranking 11th in total defense compared to the previous season’s 27th rank. The offense will also provide ample firepower, with former first-round picks Calvin Ridley, Kyle Pitts, and Matt Ryan leading the way.

However, Morris will have to address the looming question of the team’s quarterback situation, as it is unlikely that Matt Ryan or backup Josh Rosen will remain in their current roles. The collaboration between Morris, owner Arthur Blank, Falcons CEO Rich McKay, and general manager Terry Fontenot will also be closely watched, as they work together to shape the future of the team.

Raheem Morris’ return to the Atlanta Falcons as the new head coach signals a new chapter for the franchise. With his experience and success as a coordinator, the Falcons will be hoping that Morris can guide them back to the playoffs and build a winning culture in Atlanta.