The Atlanta Falcons are undergoing significant changes following the conclusion of their season, which ended on January 7, 2024. Owner Arthur Blank has made headlines by dismissing head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. In a recent press conference, Blank expressed interest in former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who was let go from his position on January 2, 2024.
Blank stated, “He would certainly be a person we would be interested in talking to, assuming he has interest in talking to us,” according to Josh Kendall of The Athletic. Harbaugh is currently linked with potential coaching positions at both the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins, but has reportedly decided to delay any interviews until at least next week.
In light of the coaching changes, Blank emphasized the importance of leadership in the Falcons’ future. He noted that the president of football operations will play a crucial role in guiding the search for both a head coach and a new general manager. There are expectations that franchise legend Matt Ryan could be appointed to this position. However, the team must first conduct in-person interviews with at least two minority candidates to comply with the Rooney Rule.
Future of Quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
The Falcons are also facing uncertainty regarding their quarterback position. Michael Penix Jr., a promising talent and projected first-round draft pick for 2024, 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.
Blank expressed confidence in Penix’s long-term potential as the team’s starting quarterback. “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 said, as reported by Matt Urben of Falcons Wire/USA Today. He added that Penix is currently on a successful rehabilitation program, indicating optimism about his return.
Meanwhile, the Falcons are navigating contract adjustments for veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. The team recently restructured the final two years of Cousins’ contract, which he signed in March 2024. Reports suggest that Cousins will be released with a post-June 1 designation before March 13, 2024.
As the Falcons look ahead, Blank’s comments reflect a commitment to building a competitive team. The focus on both coaching and quarterback decisions will be critical as the organization prepares for the upcoming season. With significant changes on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold.
