Atlanta Falcons legend, former Most Valuable Player, and current CBS Sports NFL analyst Matt Ryan recently discussed Falcons owner Arthur Blank’s decision to hire Raheem Morris instead of Bill Belichick as Atlanta’s next head coach in an interview with Ryan Gaydos of Fox News Digital.
Ryan acknowledged that there was consideration given to what Belichick could bring to the organization but expressed no surprise that Morris ultimately landed the role. Having worked closely with Morris during his tenure with the Falcons from 2015 through the 2020 season, Ryan praised Morris’s versatility and coaching acumen across various positions, including as an assistant head coach, wide receivers coach/offensive pass game coordinator, defensive coordinator, and interim head coach. Ryan highlighted Morris’s ability to connect with players and his familiarity with the inner workings of the organization, factors that likely contributed to his selection over Belichick.
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Morris’s understanding of the Falcons organization and his strong rapport with Blank were cited as key reasons for his appointment. Ryan expressed confidence in Morris’s fit with the team, emphasizing the need for solidifying the quarterback position and expressing optimism for the team’s future.
Regarding Morris’s coaching staff, Ryan noted Morris’s enthusiasm for hiring Zac Robinson, formerly of the Los Angeles Rams, as the new offensive coordinator. Ryan likened Robinson to San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, praising his potential and highlighting Morris’s close relationship with Shanahan.
With Morris, Robinson, and the rest of the coaching staff in place, the Falcons aim to build a successful team and move past any lingering speculation about Belichick’s potential interest in the coaching role.
