The Atlanta Falcons head coach, Raheem Morris, has made it clear that the success of the team hinges on improved quarterback performance.
He stated, “if we had better quarterback play last year, I might not be standing here today." and they would have the ability to be talking about those things," Morris said. “But right now, if we can focus on some of those things and do some of that, I think that"ll give us the best chance to go out there and win."
Raheem Morris: I might not be here if Falcons got better QB play last year. https://t.co/IZiTQwbb7u
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) February 27, 2024
Morris was picked after Arthur Smith, the former coach, was let go following a dismal performance from both quarterbacks, Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke, in 2023.
Team owner Arthur Blank described their performance as “deficient," confirming where the problem lies for the Falcons.
The Falcons have grand plans to address their quarterback problem, promising to scout comprehensively for deserving talent. These avenues range from free agency, draft to potential trades.
“We have 19 quarterback coaches," Morris joked. Among the "coaches" are offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, T.J. Yates, and senior offensive assistant Ken Zampese, offering vast experience for the quarterback position.
Although the quarterback position looks dicey, the Falcons have excelled in other areas. The team boasts excellent players like running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, coupled with wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts.
“You want to have different opinions [from] a lot of decision-makers to make the final decision at the time when that comes up," Morris said. “And that"s been a doozy for us. It"s been fun for us to go through."
With the No. 8 pick this April, the Falcons could improve their fortunes. Terry Fontenot, the team"s general manager, shed light on numerous pathways, from trading up to trading back.
There are enticing prospects like acquiring Justin Fields from the Bears or signing Kirk Cousins or Russell Wilson, all holding the potential of changing the dynamics of the Falcons" leadership on the field.
“People know that that quarterback is a priority for us, but there"s so many options," Fontenot said. “It"d be a little tougher if there weren"t a lot of really good options. Again, whether you"re talking about veterans, whether you"re talking about the players in this college draft, there"s a lot of really good options. So, that"s why I wouldn"t say that I feel like we"re in a bad leverage spot. If there weren"t a lot of options, maybe we would be so, but no. Very excited."
