Following a disappointing loss to the Carolina Panthers last Sunday, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank stated that the team will “let the season play out and go from there.” Blank confirmed the organization’s commitment to Coach Smith in an interview with Georgia Public Broadcasting on Tuesday, but added that they would assess their situation and make decisions accordingly after the season ended.
The Falcons’ 9-7 loss to the NFL’s bottom-ranked team was their second in a row, knocking them out of first place in the NFC South and dropping them to 6-8, requiring outside help to make the playoffs. While Blank clarified that making the playoffs this season was not a requirement for Smith to keep his job, he acknowledged the team’s increased competitiveness. Atlanta previously had a 7-10 record in both 2021 and 2022.
Despite Season Setbacks, Atlanta Falcons Owner Arthur Blank Considers Coach Smith’s FutureDespite Season Setbacks, Atlanta Falcons Owner Arthur Blank Considers Coach Smith’s Future (Photo courtesy of Yahoo)
Blank acknowledged the season’s mixed performance in a conversation with GPB, emphasizing Smith’s self-critical approach and commitment to reflecting his family’s values in his leadership. Blank went on to say, “So we’ll see how the season plays out and go from there.”
The Falcons will begin their final playoff push in Indianapolis, with Taylor Heinicke replacing Desmond Ridder at quarterback. Heinicke had previously filled in for Ridder in November losses to Minnesota and Arizona. Following the Colts game, Atlanta will finish the regular season with road games against the Chicago Bears and the New Orleans Saints. Arthur Smith, 41, is currently in his third season as the Atlanta Falcons’ head coach.
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