Atlanta Falcons Dismiss Head Coach Raheem Morris and GM Terry Fontenot
The Atlanta Falcons have officially dismissed head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, marking a major turning point for the franchise after another season without a playoff appearance. The move signals the organization’s intent to reset and pursue a new direction ahead of the upcoming NFL offseason.
Falcons Opt for Fresh Leadership
Team owner Arthur Blank described the decision as a difficult but necessary step, stressing that long-term improvement requires meaningful change. Despite moments of promise, the Falcons were unable to maintain consistency, leading management to conclude that new leadership was needed.
Season Falls Short of Expectations
Atlanta experienced brief stretches of strong play, but inconsistency ultimately defined the season. Costly losses and missed opportunities resulted in another losing record, extending the team’s playoff drought and increasing pressure from fans and analysts alike.
Evaluating Morris and Fontenot’s Time in Atlanta
Raheem Morris was praised for fostering a positive locker-room environment, but on-field results failed to translate into postseason success. The team remained competitive at times but could not sustain momentum.
Terry Fontenot, who served as general manager since 2021, oversaw multiple roster rebuilds and draft classes. However, those efforts did not produce the desired turnaround, leading ownership to pursue a new front-office vision.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The Falcons’ leadership determined that gradual improvement was no longer enough. With the team stuck in mediocrity and expectations rising, ownership chose to prioritize accountability, competitiveness, and long-term success.
Arthur Blank expressed gratitude for Morris and Fontenot’s commitment while emphasizing the franchise’s responsibility to aim higher.
New Coaching and GM Search Underway
The Falcons have confirmed plans to conduct a comprehensive search for both a new head coach and general manager. The organization will assess a wide range of candidates to reshape its football operations and restore competitiveness.
This offseason will play a critical role in determining Atlanta’s future direction.
💬 Final Thoughts
The Atlanta Falcons’ decision to part ways with Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot reflects a franchise eager to break free from prolonged inconsistency. As the team enters a pivotal offseason, the success of its next leadership hires will be crucial in shaping a return to playoff contention.
