After escalating rumors that HC Arthur Smith is likely to be fired by the Atlanta Falcons, as per the latest update by sources, Smith and Falcons have finally parted ways.
Falcons have fired Arthur Smith, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 8, 2024
NFL Network reported on Monday, that HC Smith has been dismissed by the Falcons after his upsetting three seasons with the franchise. He was appointed on Jan. 15 2021, and led the team for three seasons, recording 7-10 in each season and an overall record of 21-30.
In a meeting held on Sunday night in Atlanta between the franchise owner, Arthur M. Blank and the team’s CEO, Rich McKay, the decision was concluded.
The Falcons ended their season following a blowing loss to the New Orleans Saints 48-17 on Sunday was the nail on the wall.
The #Falcons say the search "will be led by (Arthur) Blank and (Rich) McKay, with input from Falcons General Manager Terry Fontenot, and several other appropriate members of Blank’s Atlanta Falcons and AMB Sports and Entertainment organizations."
So Fontenot appears safe. https://t.co/cCGuOt3kPp
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 8, 2024
Tom Pelissero of NFL Media broke the news of the Falcons dismissing Smith after the Sunday loss and after three seasons,
Chairman Arthur M. Blank in a statement, as released by Pelissero said,
“Decisions like this are never easy and they never feel good. We have profound respect for Coach Smith and appreciate all the hard work and dedication he has put into the Falcons over the last three years. He has been part of building a good culture in our football team, but the results on the field have not met our expectations. After significant thought and reflection, we have determined the best way forward for our team is new leadership in the head coaching position.”
M. Blank, and Falcons CEO, Rich McKay, are scheduled to meet with the media at 4 p.m. on Monday. After three seasons without a playoff appearance or a winning record, the decision was taken, and the team said a search for a new coach would begin immediately.
Coming in 2024, the Falcons have some talent with young playmakers on offense and pieces on defense, like Pro Bowl safety Jessie Bates.
