Throughout the Falcons‘ search for a new head coach, much was made about the power structure of the organization.
Bill Belichick’s candidacy was met head-on with Arthur Blank’s closest advisors. The former Patriots head coach operated with complete autonomy in New England and demanded similar power in Atlanta.
Rich McKay was in the middle of things, described as somewhat of an issue for Belichick due to their hairy past. There were reports and rumors of internal pushback on Blank’s desire to hire Belichick, and those eventually gave way following Raheem Morris’ second interview.
The Falcons passed over Bill Belichick after Blank realized it meant cleaning house to make room for Belichick’s people in the front office, coaching staff, and football operations. What was interesting about the hire was the announcement from the team also included a change in the power structure.
Instead of Terry Fontenot and Raheem Morris reporting to Rich McKay as the prior regime had, the head coach and general manager will report directly to Arthur Blank, as McKay was moved out of football operations.
Falcons fans rejoiced on social media, but I remained skeptical. This is the exact thing we were told when Arthur Smith and Fontenot were hired, and three years later we learned that McKay was heavily involved in day-to-day operations, so I don’t know why Falcons fans should just believe the organization now.
Regardless, the power structure is still flawed, in my opinion. Arthur Blank is once again meddling and is too close to football operations. He’s certainly not making decisions, but he’d be a fool to think that he’s not influencing them even subconsciously.
During Raheem Morris’ introductory press conference, Terry Fontenot began with a monologue about why he wasn’t at the presser following Arthur Smith’s firing, his role in the search for a head coach, and the power structure of the organization; most of which felt like a PR job. Here’s what he said about the last part:
Falcons GM Terry Fontenot — the decision-making was always his & Arthur Smith's in the prior power structure.
Obviously it's a different power structure now (report to Blank, not Rich McKay).
Fontenot said the decision making will be his & Raheem Morris' now.
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) February 5, 2024
I am cautiously optimistic about the direction of the Falcons under Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot. I refuse to get my hopes up, though. The same people — Arthur Blank and Rich McKay — are in power. Expecting a different outcome would be at least a little naive. Now, if Blank can actually let Morris and Fontenot do their jobs, I might start predicting Super Bowls.
—
Photographer: Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire
You must log in to post a comment.