The Atlanta Falcons fired head coach Raheem Morris and GM Terry Fontenot after finishing 8-9 for the second consecutive year, citing unmet expectations despite a late-season winning streak, and are beginning a search for new leadership.
The Atlanta Falcons have dismissed head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after finishing the 2025 season with an 8-9 record, citing the need for new leadership to meet organizational expectations. The team will begin simultaneous searches for their replacements.
The Atlanta Falcons will receive a third round pick from the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for Calvin Ridley, after Ridley signed a blockbuster deal with the Tennessee Titans. The Jaguars' attempt to manipulate the trade backfired, as they ended up giving up a third and fifth round pick for one year of Ridley, while the Falcons secured solid compensation for trading him.
Atlanta Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot emphasizes the importance of finding the right quarterback to improve the team's performance, acknowledging the various options available including potential trades, free agents, and the upcoming draft. With a focus on getting it right, Fontenot remains open to both veteran and young players, recognizing the team's enticing offensive weapons.
The Atlanta Falcons have named former defensive coordinator Raheem Morris as their new head coach, and announced that both Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot will no longer report to CEO Rich McKay for day-to-day football operations, but will report directly to owner Arthur Blank. McKay will still represent the team on NFL matters and will transition to overseeing Atlanta United, while also joining the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation board.
In a Q&A with Kevin Knight of the Falcoholic, the state of the Atlanta Falcons is discussed ahead of their Week 6 matchup against the Washington Commanders. The Falcons, who have been rebuilding, have made progress in cleaning up their salary cap and acquiring draft assets. The performance of quarterback Desmond Ridder remains uncertain, as he has shown inconsistency but had a standout game in Week 5. The offense needs to address its inconsistent offensive line, while the defense has been a bright spot for the team. The Falcons' special teams have been solid, but their return game has suffered due to injuries. The Falcons are favored to win the game against the Commanders.
The Atlanta Falcons' decision to draft Bijan Robinson as the No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft was solidified after a private workout in Austin, Texas, where the running back displayed his talent and maturity. The Falcons' top decision-makers, including general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Arthur Smith, were impressed by Robinson's skills and authentic nature, as well as his interactions with former teammate and Falcons defensive lineman Ta'Quon Graham. The Falcons had been eyeing Robinson since his high school days and were convinced he could be a game-changer for the team.
Falcons GM Terry Fontenot explains the team's decision to draft Bijan Robinson at No. 8, stating that they focus on taking impact players and playmakers rather than a particular position. Robinson can contribute both as a running back and slot receiver, and the team has a clear plan for utilizing him. Fontenot emphasizes the importance of unselfish players and winning as a team, rather than individual stats. With Robinson joining a roster that includes Tyler Allgeier and Cordarelle Patterson, the Falcons could make a move toward serious playoff contention.
After years of chasing a dream, the Atlanta Falcons have finally invested in their roster and are ready to contend in the NFC South. With a revamped defense and improved offense, the pressure is on for the Falcons to win, but they are reveling in the opportunity to prove themselves. Led by head coach Arthur Smith and general manager Terry Fontenot, the Falcons have added game-changing talent like Bijan Robinson and Calais Campbell, and are focused on the present rather than dreaming of the past.
Atlanta Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot explains how the team landed Texas running back Bijan Robinson in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite receiving trade offers, the Falcons were confident Robinson would be available at No. 8 overall and declined all offers to select him. Fontenot cites the team's passion and conviction for Robinson as the reason for sticking to their plan and not risking losing him. Robinson's fit with the team's organizational culture, locker room, and skill set also played a role in the decision.
Falcons GM Terry Fontenot and head coach Arthur Smith are keeping their draft strategy close to the vest, not wanting to give away any competitive edge. They have mapped out scenarios and contingency plans for each one, with methods to react and pivot to the unexpected. The Falcons have seven selections, including the No. 8 overall pick, and are looking for someone they deem a true impact player. Fontenot said this year's draft is the most uncertain it has been, and they are prepared to make a move when they need to.