Three reasons why Bill Belichick isn’t what the Falcons need

While that would certainly be a splashy hire, it isn't the direction the Falcons should go. Here are three reasons why.

1. They don't have a quarterback

This is the biggest reason why a Falcons and Belichick marriage wouldn't work. Have you seen Belichick coach without Tom Brady for the past four seasons? It hasn't been pretty. With the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach, Atlanta might also be more likely to pursue an aging veteran with only a couple of good years left. 

The Falcons have a young core that should contend for seasons to come, but that future could be wiped away by going through with a recklessly speedy rebuild.

2. They already have a GM

Belichick likes to do the shopping and the cooking, and that power dynamic isn't a great fit with cooks Rich McKay (team president) and Terry Fontenot (general manager) already in the kitchen. 

If the future Hall of Fame coach gets the job and full control, who's to say he won't repeat the same mistakes he made late in New England? 

This includes drafting offensive lineman Cole Strange out of UT-Chattanooga at No. 29 overall or selecting wide receiver Tyquan Thornton two picks ahead of Steelers wideout George Pickens during the second round in 2022.

3. They need a head coach with an offensive background

Defense wasn't the problem for the Falcons in 2023. First-year defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen did an excellent job improving the unit. After ranking 27th in total defense in 2022, Atlanta was 11th this season. 

Belichick would likely bring his own staff, putting Nielsen's job security in question. That would be a huge mistake based on how the defense responded to him this season. Instead of going after Belichick, the Falcons need to find a coach with an offensive background who can develop a young quarterback. 

Atlanta, which holds the No. 8 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is likely in a perfect position to draft Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. It could also trade up to No. 1 overall should the Bears retain quarterback Justin Fields, or it could trade for Fields if he becomes available.

Offensive coordinators, including Lions' Ben Johnson or Texans' Bobby Slowik, would make more sense as options for the Falcons head coaching gig. Belichick, 71, would be better suited on a team like the Chargers, which already is set at quarterback with Justin Herbert.

The Falcons' top brass is wise to do its due diligence. When the greatest coach in NFL history becomes available, it makes sense for an organization to see what he can offer. While Belichick has a lot left to give the sport if he continues coaching, the best fit isn't in Atlanta.