With a couple of games left in the regular season, fans were convinced that the Falcons would be in the market for a new head coach and quarterback.
Arthur Smith’s seat was blazing hot, but the jury was still out on what Arthur Blank was going to do. However, what wasn’t up for debate was Desmond Ridder‘s future. There was absolutely no reality where his job was safe.
Eventually, Blank fired Smith and the search for a new head coach began. For much of the process, it seemed that Bill Belichick was primed to become the Falcons’ next head coach until Adam Schefter reported that Raheem Morris was hired.
The move was met with universal praise around the NFL. Coaches rejoiced but not just any ordinary coaches; the best head coaches in the league — Sean McVay, Kyle Shanahan, Matt LaFleur, etc. — celebrated the Morris hire. Players, like Jalen Ramsey, too commended the Falcons.
However, among fans, it was met with varying opinions. Some loved it, while others questioned it. Those who weren’t warm to Raheem Morris quickly came around when it was revealed that he would be bringing Zac Robinson with him to Atlanta.
The former Rams quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator was the hottest offensive coordinator candidate of the hiring cycle, but his relationship with Morris clearly swayed him to come to Atlanta. It was met with overwhelming approval from fans.
However, regardless of the head coaching hire or offensive coordinator hire, the quarterback position was always the biggest decision of the offseason. The answer isn’t currently on the roster, and I can’t believe I have to type that out.
Yes, as you read this, there are some Falcons fans who believe Zac Robinson can salvage Desmond Ridder’s career and turn him into a starting quarterback because Arthur Smith is such a horrible offensive play caller.
Well, let’s just examine the facts. Ridder turned the ball over in the red zone more than any other quarterback in the league this year, and he didn’t start two games. He consistently handicapped the offense. We know that.
Another fact, Arthur Smith wasn’t perfect in 2023. At times, his play calling was questionable at best. However, we know what he can do with a quality quarterback. With the Titans, Smith coordinated one of the league’s best offenses, revived Ryan Tannehill‘s career, and helped turn A.J. Brown and Jonnu Smith into stars.
Both things can be true at once. Arthur Smith failed in Atlanta, but Desmond Ridder isn’t the answer for the Falcons, Zac Robinson or not.
—
Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
You must log in to post a comment.