After conducting a search that lasted over two weeks, the Atlanta Falcons finally hired former Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris on Thursday evening. The team met with 14 different coaches, but Morris was one of four to receive a second interview.
The 47-year-old spent the last three seasons in Los Angeles and now returns to Atlanta where he spent six years (2015-2020) as a member of Dan Quinn’s staff.
The Falcons officially named Morris head coach on Thursday night, but there was an interesting nugget buried in the team’s press release. According to Falcons owner Arthur Blank, CEO Rich McKay will no longer be involved in football operations.
“While he’ll no longer be involved in day-to-day football operations, Rich’s role will broaden in our organization,” Blank said in the statement.
Fans have previously criticized Blank for allowing McKay to be overly involved in areas that are typically left to the head coach and general manager. While McKay was involved in the hiring process, it’s good to see the team is willing to give Morris a fair shot to run things his way.
Atlanta is also reportedly targeting Rams quarterbacks coach/passing-game coordinator Zac Robinson for the team’s offensive coordinator position.