After a lackluster season finale, Atlanta decided to part ways with Arthur Smith, who achieved a 7-10 record in each of his three seasons. Despite the team consistently falling short of expectations, my criticism leans more towards Desmond Ridder. Smith’s insistence on relying on a third-round pick proved detrimental.
It’s regrettable that Smith’s postseason chances were likely hindered by his persistence with Ridder. Recognizing Ridder wasn’t the right fit in 2022 and opting for Marcus Mariota might have changed the outcome, but that’s in the past.
Bill Belichick is still the head coach in New England but the Atlanta Falcons are a team to watch if Belichick is available. They are interested, per sources.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 8, 2024
Currently, the Falcons have only been linked to one potential head coaching candidate, and that’s someone who is not yet available. Dianna Russini from The Athletic reports the team’s interest in Bill Belichick. Unsurprisingly, Belichick is the frontrunner in betting odds for the next Falcons head coach, alongside Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Jim Harbaugh, Raheem Morris, and Bobby Slowik follow closely.
Several Ravens coordinators, Todd Monken and Mike McDonald, along with Joe Brady, currently coordinating the Bills offense, should also be considered. The Falcons are advised to explore a broad range of options and not limit their choices.
Current sportsbooks odds for the next #Falcons head coach:
Bill Belichick +300
Ben Johnson +300
Jim Harbaugh +325
Raheem Morris +850
Bobby Slowik +850 pic.twitter.com/MAld71igqQ— Miles Garrett (@MilesGarrettTV) January 8, 2024
While I don’t have a specific preference, I believe pursuing Bill Belichick could be seen as a desperate move by an owner eager to secure victories. However, it might not be the best long-term strategy. Here’s hoping the Falcons discover the next Kyle Shanahan for their coaching position.