Owner Arthur Blank of the Atlanta Falcons announced the team’s decision on head coach Arthur Smith’s future after a disheartening loss to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, saying that they will “let the season play out and go from there.” In an interview with Georgia Public Broadcasting on Tuesday, Blank reaffirmed the organization’s support for Coach Smith while also mentioning that following the season, they will evaluate their circumstances and make appropriate decisions.
The Falcons suffered their second straight loss, falling from first place in the NFC South to 6-8 and needing outside help to qualify for the playoffs. The Falcons lost 9-7 to the NFL’s bottom-ranked club. Although Blank made it clear that the team’s success in the postseason this year was not a requirement for Smith to stay in his role, he did concede that the team needed to show more grit. In 2021 and 2022, Atlanta had previously concluded with a 7-10 record.
During a conversation with GPB, Blank admitted to the inconsistent play during this segment of the season, highlighting Smith’s self-evaluation methodology and dedication to embodying his family’s principles in his leadership. “So we’ll see how the season plays out and go from there,” Blank said.
The Falcons have selected Taylor Heinicke to start at quarterback instead of Desmond Ridder as they prepare to make their last postseason push in Indianapolis. Heinicke had previously taken Ridder’s position in November’s defeats to Minnesota and Arizona. Atlanta will play away games against the Chicago Bears and the New Orleans Saints to wrap off the regular season after the Colts game. Arthur Smith, 41, has been the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons for the past three seasons.
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