Raheem Morris, the former Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator, is set to make a return to the Atlanta Falcons as their new head coach. This news comes after a thorough interview process that saw Morris emerge as the top candidate for the position. With his previous experience with the Falcons as their defensive coordinator and interim head coach, Morris is no stranger to the organization.
Morris began his coaching career in 1998 and has since gained extensive experience in the NFL. He spent three seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as their head coach from 2009 to 2011, followed by a stint with the Washington Football Team as a secondary assistant. In 2020, Morris rejoined the Falcons as their defensive coordinator and later took over as interim head coach after the dismissal of Dan Quinn.
During his time with the Rams, Morris played a crucial role in leading their defense to a Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season. With 59 games under his belt as an NFL head coach, Morris brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Falcons.
The decision to hire Morris also puts an end to speculation about Bill Belichick potentially coaching in the NFC South. Following his departure from the New England Patriots after a remarkable 24-season run, Belichick’s first interviews were with the Falcons. However, the team ultimately chose Morris as their new head coach.
Morris will be taking over a Falcons team that has shown promise in recent years but has struggled to make it to the postseason. Under his leadership, the defense improved significantly in 2023, finishing 11th in total defense compared to 27th in the previous year. On the offensive side, Morris will have talented players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, all former first-round picks.
One challenge that Morris will face is the uncertainty at the quarterback position. It is unlikely that Desmond Ridder or Taylor Heinicke will remain as the franchise’s starting signal-caller, leaving Morris with the task of finding a suitable replacement.
The dynamics between Morris, owner Arthur Blank, Falcons CEO Rich McKay, and general manager Terry Fontenot will also be a topic of interest. How they collaborate and work together will play a significant role in the team’s success moving forward.
After a successful playoff run with the Rams, Morris will be eager to guide the Falcons back to the postseason after a six-season drought. With his experience and expertise, he has the potential to bring about positive change and lead the team to new heights.
As Raheem Morris returns to Atlanta, he brings with him a sense of familiarity and a determination to make a lasting impact. Falcons fans can look forward to an exciting new chapter under Morris’ leadership as he strives to bring success back to the organization.
