The Atlanta Falcons hit reset late Sunday night, parting ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot following another season that fell short of expectations.
According to ESPN, the decision came just hours after Atlanta closed the year with a 19–17 win over the New Orleans Saints, finishing 8–9. While the final result was positive, it wasn’t enough to change the organization’s broader outlook.
Falcons owner Arthur Blank acknowledged the difficulty of the move in a statement.
“I have great personal affinity for both Raheem and Terry and appreciate their hard work and dedication to the Falcons,” Blank said. “But I believe we need new leadership in these roles moving forward. The results on the field have not met our expectations or those of our fans.”
Morris was hired as head coach in January 2024, stepping into the role after previously serving on Atlanta’s staff in multiple capacities. His return to the Falcons followed a successful stretch as defensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams, where he was part of a Super Bowl–winning team.
Known around the league as a respected leader and communicator, Morris was well-liked inside the locker room and brought stability during a period of transition.
Drake London, Jessie Bates III, and Bijan Robinson were among those who publicly voiced their support for Morris, with London saying, “I want Rah back with all my heart.” Despite that backing, the organization ultimately chose to move in a different direction.
Fontenot’s exit ends a five-year run that began in 2021, when he arrived from the Saints organization for his first opportunity as an NFL general manager. During his tenure, Atlanta navigated major salary-cap issues and sought to chart a post–Matt Ryan future at quarterback, cycling through multiple options without finding long-term clarity.
The most recent plan paired veteran Kirk Cousins with rookie Michael Penix Jr., a strategy meant to balance immediate competitiveness with future development. While there were early flashes, injuries and inconsistency derailed that vision before it could fully take shape.
With both leadership roles now vacant, the Falcons confirmed that searches for a new head coach and general manager will begin immediately.