The Atlanta Falcons’ season was less than expected. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was going into the season as a starter; they got two first-round edge rushers in Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr, and things seemed to look bright. But it was far from it.
The Falcons went 8-9, and even though they won four games in a row to end the year, it wasn’t enough, and they fired head coach Raheem Morris. It prompts the question of where they go from here.
Falcons Need to Address Coaching Changes
The Falcons officially fired Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. The Falcons released a statement from owner Arthur Blank saying, “I have great personal affinity for both Raheem and Terry and appreciate their hard work and dedication to the Falcons, but I believe we need new leadership in these roles moving forward.
MORE: List of NFL Head Coaches Fired This Season
The decision to move away from people who represent the organization so well and have a shared commitment to the values that are important to the organization is not an easy one, but the results on the field have not met our expectations or those of our fans and leadership. I wish Raheem and Terry the absolute best in their future pursuits.”
Now the Falcons are on the search for a new head coach, and they need to possibly hire someone who may be a bit more offensive minded an they need to hire a general manager who can manage draft picks a bit better, as they don’t have a first-rounder for 2026.
Addressing the Quarterback Situation
Starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. tore his ACL in their Week 11 loss to the Carolina Panthers, which ended his season. Backup Kirk Cousins was back in the lineup and led them the rest of the way. But what will you do with the QB situation? Because Penix Jr. will be on the sideline for quite some time.
Kirk Cousins to Baker Mayfield: “Go win the NFC South.”
…three weeks later…
Kirk Cousins: “GOTEEEM!!” 💀 pic.twitter.com/GDVQEQI2n3
— Joshua Cho (@jbchoknows) January 5, 2026
They also need to determine whether to trade or retain Kirk Cousins, as his contract will complicate matters either way. Do they even draft a quarterback this year, or stick with what they have? That’s something else on their to-do list for the offseason.
Draft Players Who Can Make an Immediate Impact
In 2026, the Falcons will need to draft players that they need, such as offensive linemen, cornerbacks, and tight ends. The offensive line was banged up for the majority of the season, and so was the secondary. There is uncertainty about whether they’ll extend tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., who just played on the fifth-year option. If not, they need to draft a tight end who will get more production on the field, per the scheme.
The Falcons have a lot to do, but the first priority is the head coach and general manager.
