Arthur Smith was still the Atlanta Falcons’ head coach just a week ago. Smith needed a win to save his job, according to the persistent rumours at the time. Smith did not win and never came close, instead getting blown out by the Saints in what proved to be a meaningless game, win or lose. Arthur Blank waited one nanosecond into “Black Monday” before revealing Smith’s dismissal, then convened a terrible press conference with Rich McKay.
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After that, there was stillness. While team interviews were being reported left and right, there was no word from Atlanta. There are no permission requests or scheduled interviews. There have been constant rumours regarding Atlanta’s interest in Bill Belichick, which might lead fans to believe Atlanta is completely committed to the former Patriots head coach. Were other interviews merely unimportant?
After a few days of silence, reports began to trickle in. The list appears to be rather comprehensive, featuring most of the league’s prominent names.
Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn
Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero
Steve Wilks, 49ers head coach
Mike MacDonald, Ravens head coach
Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson
Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowick
AHC/DL coach for the Ravens, Anthony Weaver
The noteworthy absences would be Bill Belichick and Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, the two biggest names available, but actual interest, at least in Belichick, appears to be more restricted.
So far, it appears like Arthur Smith and Rich McKay are casting a wide net that includes both offensive and defensive coaches. You’d probably like to see former Falcons coach Raheem Moore and possibly Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken on that list.
On Sunday, Atlanta added another interview to its agenda, this time wanting to meet with former Raiders player and interim head coach Antonio Piece. Pierce is the only candidate who does not have prior coordination experience. Pierce came in as a linebacker coach before taking over as interim head coach when Josh McDaniels was fired for the second time during the season.
What’s the good news? Pierce was appointed as interim coach because the players were so supportive of the coach. After a disastrous start, he led the Las Vegas Raiders to a 5-4 record with a no-name quarterback. Pierce is most likely a players’ coach who will need to bring in some more senior coordinators. While it is a bit unusual, several coaches, such as Dan Campbell, have successfully made the shift.
Pierce is also a favourite to be hired by the Raiders. If the Falcons are interested in Pierce, an interview should take place shortly.
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