The Atlanta Falcons have officially stated what was reported by media Thursday Evening after two weeks of searching for a new head coach: former L.A. Rams defensive coach Raheem Morris now has the job.
“This is a historic day for the Atlanta Falcons,” said Falcons owner Arthur Blank in a statement. “After a comprehensive search, we are thrilled to welcome Raheem Morris back to Atlanta as the team’s head coach.”
Got Heem!
We have hired Raheem Morris as our head coach
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) January 26, 2024
Morris is the 19th head coach in the franchise’s existence.
“With 26 years of experience in the NFL, including the last three in an outstanding organization that has won our league’s championship in that time, Raheem emerged from a field of excellent candidates and is the right leader to take our team into the future, said Blank.”
“I am overjoyed for the opportunity for my family and I to return to Atlanta as the Falcons head coach,” said Morris in a statement. “We know from firsthand experience what a first-class organization Atlanta is and what this team means to the city and its fans. I am incredibly appreciative of Arthur Blank for his leadership and for this entire organization for putting its trust in me to help lead this team.”
In addition to the hiring of Morris as head coach of the Falcons, key decisions on the leadership of the team have been made as well. Going forward, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot and Morris will report directly to Blank and not to AMBSE CEO Rich McKay, The press release says McKay will no longer be involved in day-to-day operations with the Atlanta Falcons, and will now have direct oversight of the the AMBSE co-owned Atlanta United soccer club. Greg Beadles remains president of the Falcons and will keep overseeing day-to-day operations.