Falcons hire Rams DC Raheem Morris as next coach

Atlanta Falcons hire Raheem Morris as head coach, beating out Bill Belichick. Morris previously coached Tampa Bay Buccaneers and worked for Falcons.

The Atlanta Falcons have reportedly chosen Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris as their next head coach, beating out other notable candidates such as Bill Belichick. This decision comes after the Falcons conducted interviews with a total of 14 potential candidates, including Jim Harbaugh and Mike Vrabel.

In addition to Morris, the Falcons also completed a second interview with Houston Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik earlier on Thursday. Morris, Belichick, and Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero all had the privilege of two interviews during the hiring process.

Morris has previously interviewed for head coaching positions with the Chargers, Panthers, Washington Commanders, and Seattle Seahawks. This will be his second stint as a full-time head coach, having previously led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009-2011. During his time with the Buccaneers, the team posted a record of 17-31.

Before being named the head coach of the Falcons, Morris served as the team's pass game coordinator and later took on the role of wide receivers coach. He was then promoted to defensive coordinator in 2020 and served as the interim head coach after the firing of Dan Quinn, helping the team to a 4-12 finish.

During his time as the Rams' defensive coordinator, Morris' unit achieved rankings of 17th, 19th, and 20th in total defense in the league. Notably, the Rams won Super Bowl LVI during his tenure.

Despite Belichick being considered a favorite for the Falcons' head coaching position, he was not ultimately chosen for the role. It remains to be seen where the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach will land in 2024, as the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks, the only teams with remaining head-coaching vacancies, have not interviewed Belichick.