Atlanta Falcons Move On From Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot

Falcons Begin Major Reset After Another Missed Playoff Season
The Atlanta Falcons have officially severed ties with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, signaling a significant reset for the franchise as it heads into the 2026 offseason. The announcement came shortly after the conclusion of the regular season, following another year without a playoff appearance.

Team owner Arthur Blank acknowledged the difficult nature of the decision but emphasized the need for change as the organization looks to reverse years of inconsistency and underachievement.

Season Results Fall Short of Expectations
Although the Falcons showed signs of improvement late in the season, including a brief winning stretch, the team ultimately finished with a losing record and failed to qualify for the postseason. The inability to maintain consistent success played a major role in ownership’s decision to pursue new leadership.

The Falcons’ playoff drought now stretches several years, increasing pressure on the front office and coaching staff to deliver results.

Review of Morris and Fontenot’s Tenure
Raheem Morris’ time as head coach was marked by flashes of competitiveness but lacked sustained success. Despite strong locker-room support, the team never managed to make a playoff run under his leadership.

Meanwhile, Terry Fontenot, who had overseen roster construction and draft strategy since 2021, was unable to assemble a team capable of becoming a true postseason contender. Multiple rebuild attempts failed to translate into meaningful progress in the standings.

Why the Falcons Made the Change
The Falcons’ leadership concluded that incremental improvement was no longer enough. With fan frustration mounting and the franchise stuck in mediocrity, ownership determined that a new direction was necessary to restore competitiveness and accountability.

Arthur Blank expressed appreciation for both Morris and Fontenot but reiterated that the organization must prioritize long-term success and stability.

Search for New Leadership Underway
Atlanta has confirmed it will begin simultaneous searches for a new head coach and general manager. The team plans to evaluate both internal and external candidates as part of a comprehensive hiring process aimed at reshaping the franchise’s culture and football operations.

The upcoming offseason will be critical as the Falcons look to make impactful decisions regarding leadership, roster development, and overall strategy.

Reaction Around the League
The decision has sparked widespread discussion across the NFL, with analysts and fans viewing the move as a necessary step toward ending Atlanta’s prolonged struggles. Speculation about potential coaching and front-office candidates has already begun, fueling anticipation for a new era.

💬 Final Thoughts
The Atlanta Falcons’ decision to part ways with Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot reflects a franchise determined to move beyond prolonged inconsistency. While both leaders contributed effort and commitment, results ultimately fell short of expectations. With a fresh search for new leadership underway, the Falcons now face a pivotal offseason that could redefine their future. Success will depend on making the right hires, restoring stability, and building a competitive team capable of returning to playoff contention.