Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank has made significant changes to the team’s leadership following the conclusion of their season on January 7, 2024. In a press conference on Thursday, Blank confirmed the dismissal of head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, signaling a new direction for the franchise.
During the discussion, Blank expressed interest in former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who was released from his position earlier in the week. “He would certainly be a person we would be interested in talking to, assuming he has interest in talking to us,” Blank stated, according to Josh Kendall of The Athletic. Although Harbaugh is not expected to conduct interviews until next week at the earliest, he has already been linked to potential openings with the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins.
The Falcons aim to establish a solid leadership framework, with Blank emphasizing the importance of having a president of football operations in place to oversee the hiring process for both the head coach and general manager. Reports suggest that franchise icon Matt Ryan is being considered for the president role, but the team must first conduct in-person interviews with at least two external minority candidates to comply with the Rooney Rule.
Future of Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Remains Uncertain
In addition to coaching changes, Blank addressed the status of Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who underwent surgery in November 2023 to repair a partially torn ACL. His recovery timeline raises questions about his readiness for the start of the 2026 season. Meanwhile, the Falcons are expected to release veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins with a post-June 1 designation before March 13, 2024, after restructuring his contract.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding Penix’s return, Blank remains optimistic about the young quarterback’s long-term potential. “The surgeon felt 1000 percent secure in the medical procedure they went through, and they really felt his knee was going to be better than it was before,” Blank remarked, according to Matt Urben of Falcons Wire/USA Today. He continued, “He’s on a successful rehab program. We look forward to having Michael back. He’s had good surgery. We’ve spoken with the medical staff. It seems to have gone well.”
As the Falcons navigate these pivotal changes, the focus will be on building a competitive team capable of advancing in the upcoming seasons. With new leadership and hope for a healthy quarterback, the franchise aims to regain its footing in the league.
