Black Monday arrived early for the NFL, and Raheem Morris’ departure from the Atlanta Falcons immediately sparked speculation about where he might land next. Moments after the Falcons announced they were parting ways with their head coach, his name was already circulating as a potential candidate for a key role with a Super Bowl contender.
Former Falcons Coach Raheem Morris Linked to High-Level Defensive Opening
Matt Schneidman, The Athletic’s beat reporter for the Green Bay Packers, noted on his X account that Morris would make sense for the team if it loses its defensive voice to a head coaching opportunity.
“I’d keep an eye on him for Packers defensive coordinator if Matt LaFleur stays and Jeff Hafley gets a head coaching job,” Schneidman wrote, adding early momentum to Morris’ candidacy.
The Falcons dismissed Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot on Sunday night after an 8-9 finish that left the team out of the postseason for the second straight year under their watch. Atlanta won its final four games, but the late surge did not shift the organization’s long-term evaluation.
I’d keep an eye on him for Packers defensive coordinator if Matt LaFleur stays and Jeff Hafley gets a head coaching job. https://t.co/nlGMkhy5k9
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) January 5, 2026
Morris went 16-18 over the past two seasons, and team officials opted for a complete reset after another year of inconsistent play. Atlanta’s defense posted a PFSN Defense Impact score of 75.1, ranking fifteenth in the league, a respectable mark that still fell short of the consistency the organization hoped to see.
The sweeping changes could extend beyond the coaching staff and front office. Long-time Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is reportedly being considered for a high-profile front-office role, similar to the position Chris Spielman holds with the Detroit Lions.
Ryan has remained connected to the franchise since his departure, and his potential involvement would signal a significant shift in how Atlanta structures its leadership group and approaches the upcoming offseason.
Despite the disappointing finish in Atlanta, Morris is expected to be a sought-after defensive coordinator candidate across the league. He has decades of experience and is widely respected for his leadership and adaptability.
Morris’ background aligns with what the Packers could look for if Hafley, who has drawn interest from multiple teams, departs for a head coaching opportunity.
The Falcons now begin another offseason in search of stability after failing to reach the playoffs since 2017. The organization is expected to conduct a wide-ranging search for both a new head coach and general manager.
As the coaching carousel accelerates, Morris’ name is likely to remain prominent. His availability adds another wrinkle to a hiring cycle that is expected to move quickly as playoff teams prepare for potential staff changes of their own.
