The Atlanta Falcons have made a game-changing coaching decision, appointing former Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris as their new head coach. Morris, who recently had a meeting with the Seattle Seahawks, left a lasting impression during an in-person discussion with Falcons owner Arthur Blank and the executive team at Blank’s residence. Sources suggest that Morris’s vibrant energy stood out, earning him accolades after what was described as an exceptional interview.
Having played a crucial role in the Rams’ Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season, Morris received praise for his hiring from Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who took to social media to express his belief that the Falcons have snagged one of the best coaches in the NFL.
No stranger to the Falcons, Morris previously served as the assistant head coach, pass game coordinator, and wide receivers coach from 2015-2019, and as the defensive coordinator in 2020. In 2020, following the departure of Dan Quinn, Morris took over as the interim head coach and finished with a 4-7 record. He also brings head coaching experience from his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009-2011, where he posted a 17-31 record.
The Falcons conducted an extensive search, interviewing 14 candidates, including the legendary Bill Belichick. However, Morris left the most significant impact on the Atlanta leadership, ultimately replacing Arthur Smith, who was let go after a third consecutive 7-10 season. Despite holding a 6-6 record after 12 games in the 2023 season, the Falcons stumbled in the final stretch, finishing 1-4 and continuing a trend of collapsing towards the end of the season.
Morris brings his coaching expertise from leading the Rams’ defense, which ranked 20th in yards allowed per game (337.9 ypg) and 19th in points allowed per game (22.2 ppg) during the 2023 season. The Rams secured a playoff spot with a 10-7 record as a wild card. There are also indications that Morris might bring in Zac Robinson, the current Rams pass game coordinator and quarterbacks coach, to join him as the offensive coordinator in Atlanta.
