Raheem Morris has been one of the league’s best defensive minds for some time now and that was made ever more evident by his hiring as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons this week. The Falcons are familiar with Morris as he worked with the organization from 2015 to 2020 in a variety of roles. Now as the head man, Morris will be looking to assemble his staff to serve his vision – and that vision could come at the detriment of the Rams.
Not only do the Rams have to replace their Super Bowl-winning defensive coordinator, but there’s a belief among the league that Morris could be poaching some of Sean McVay’s top assistants to help him in Atlanta.
Some of the coaches to keep an eye on are Zac Robinson, Jake Peetz, and Aubrey Pleasant.
Robinson has been a hot name for some time in the OC market. Interviewing with the Chargers in 2023 for their vacant OC position, interest has only grown in 2024 with the Raiders, Steelers, Bucs, Saints, and Falcons all expected to be interested in his services. Robinson is as good as gone and considering his relationship with Morris, I wouldn’t be surprised if he had a foot inside the Falcons facility already.
Peetz is a long-time QB coach, previously serving the Raiders, Panthers, and the LSU Tigers in that capacity. With the Falcons expected to draft a quarterback this offseason, Morris may want a familiar face to groom who he believes will be the future of the franchise.
Pleasant only worked with Morris for one year in Los Angeles but the two go way back during their time in Washington. The two worked together under Mike Shanahan and Jay Gruden from 2013-2014. They worked closely together in 2014 when Morris was Washington’s DBs coach and Pleasant was Morris’ assistant. Morris will most likely need a DC and with Pleasant’s increased role in the Rams’ 2023 defense, Pleasant will be on the shortlist for the role.
With at least three different positions potentially needing to be replaced on Sean McVay’s coaching staff, Morris’ departure could lead to more. As McVay and the Rams look to fill the holes left this offseason, the top names continue to be taken off the board.