Bill Belichick, widely considered one of the greatest head coaches in NFL history after winning 6 Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, interviewed with the Atlanta Falcons on Monday for their vacant head coaching position. Belichick has emerged as a top candidate to fill the role after meeting in-person with Falcons owner Arthur Blank.
Background on the Falcons’ Coaching Search
The Falcons and owner Arthur Blank parted ways with former head coach Arthur Smith two weeks ago after 4 seasons and an underwhelming record. Since then, Atlanta has cast a wide net in their search for a new head coach.
Blank stressed the importance of finding an “innovative coach with a history of success” to lead the Falcons into a new era after struggles in recent seasons. With a franchise quarterback in Matt Ryan and stars like Kyle Pitts, the Falcons have talent on their roster and hope a new coach can maximize their potential.
Coaches Interviewed by Falcons
| Name | Previous Team | Title |
|---|---|---|
| Bill Belichick | New England Patriots | Head Coach |
| Eric Bieniemy | Kansas City Chiefs | Offensive Coordinator |
| Brian Flores | Pittsburgh Steelers | Senior Defensive Assistant/Linebackers Coach |
| Raheem Morris | Los Angeles Rams | Defensive Coordinator |
Raheem Morris, who went 4-7 as the Falcons interim head coach in 2020 after Dan Quinn was fired, and Eric Bieniemy seemed to be leading candidates until Belichick entered the mix.
Details on the Belichick Interview
On Monday January 16th, Adam Schefter broke the stunning news that Bill Belichick was interviewing with the Falcons for their head coaching job. Belichick has spent the last week meeting with several teams after leaving New England, but it was believed he would target a front office role to oversee football operations rather than a return to coaching.
However, given full control of football decisions by Arthur Blank, Belichick seems genuinely interested in coaching the Falcons. The team officially confirmed that Belichick completed an interview.
Belichick is by far the most accomplished candidate the Falcons have considered. In 23 seasons with the Patriots, he led the franchise to 20 straight winning seasons, 17 AFC East titles, 9 Super Bowl appearances and 6 championships. His resume is unmatched in NFL coaching circles, and the Falcons are intrigued by bringing his leadership to Atlanta.
There has been speculation about Belichick potentially trying to trade for former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady to join him in Atlanta. But with Matt Ryan under contract, it seems more likely Belichick would look to maximize Ryan’s talents in the short-term while potentially grooming a quarterback of the future behind him.
What Happens Next
While no deal is considered imminent yet, there is mutual interest between Belichick and the Falcons in getting a deal done. The planned meeting went extremely well, with owner Arthur Blank coming away very impressed by Belichick’s vision for the Falcons organization.
Belichick figures to have significant personnel power wherever he lands, and total control of football decisions is reportedly a major factor in his decision making process.
The Falcons must still comply with the Rooney Rule before making a hire by interviewing at least 2 minority candidates. But by all indications, Belichick has emerged as the favorite and top choice to become Atlanta’s next head coach. Other teams like the Broncos, Colts and Cardinals have shown interest, but it seems Belichick’s initial preference is the attractive opening in Atlanta because of their ownership structure, cap space and existing talent like Matt Ryan.
Speculation will swirl over the next week while negotiations play out, but expect an offer from Arthur Blank once the interview process finishes. All signs now point to one of the great coaching minds in NFL history bringing his talents to Atlanta. For a franchise that has struggled to recapture their successful 2016 Super Bowl run, this could be the bold hire that leads to brighter years ahead for the Falcons.
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