The Atlanta Falcons are undergoing a significant leadership overhaul as they seek to improve after missing the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season. Following a narrow victory over the New Orleans Saints on January 1, 2026, the team parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. The decision comes after a disappointing season where the Falcons finished with a record of 8-9, tied with the Carolina Panthers but losing the tiebreaker due to division performance.
In a letter to fans, Falcons owner Arthur Blank announced plans for “significant changes” within the organization. The team will not only search for a new head coach and general manager but will also appoint a new president of football operations. Blank emphasized that the team intends to “move quickly” in its search for this key executive role.
“Our new head coach and general manager will report to the new president of football, and they will work collaboratively as a football leadership team on all football decisions,” Blank wrote. He also highlighted that final decision-making authority will rest with the new president of football.
Potential Return for Matt Ryan
There is growing speculation that former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan could be appointed as the new president of football operations. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, many insiders believe Ryan’s extensive experience with the team makes him a prime candidate for the role. Ryan played for the Falcons from 2008 to 2021 and had a brief stint with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022 before retiring from the NFL.
During his time with the Falcons, Ryan earned four Pro Bowl selections and led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2016 season, where they suffered a dramatic loss against the New England Patriots. He holds nearly all major franchise passing records for Atlanta and remains a beloved figure among the fanbase.
Since retiring, Ryan has found success as an analyst for CBS Sports, further solidifying his standing within the football community. If the Falcons are looking for a leader who is both popular among fans and has a deep understanding of the game, Ryan would be a strategic choice.
Future Outlook for the Falcons
The Falcons have struggled to achieve a winning season since 2017. With the recent leadership changes, the organization aims to revitalize its approach and re-establish itself as a competitive force in the NFL. The new leadership team will face the challenge of addressing the team’s performance issues while fostering a positive connection with the fanbase.
As the Falcons embark on this new chapter, the potential return of Matt Ryan could represent a unifying move for the franchise, combining his familiarity with the organization and his ongoing influence in the sport. The upcoming weeks will be critical as the Falcons finalize their leadership structure and set their sights on a more successful future.
