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Atlanta Falcons Fire Head Coach Arthur Smith

Originally posted on The 33rd Team | By Ari Meirov | Last updated Jan 8, 2024 2:22 AM ET

The Atlanta Falcons have fired head coach Arthur Smith after three seasons. Smith went 7-10 in each of those three seasons, leaving with an overall record of 21-30.

"Decisions like this are never easy, and they never feel good," said owner Arthur Blank. "We have profound respect for coach Smith and appreciate all the hard work and dedication he has put into the Falcons over the last three years.

"He has been part of building a good culture in our football team, but the results on the field have not met our expectations. After significant thought and reflection, we have determined the best way forward for our team is new leadership in the head coaching position."

The Falcons ended the season on Sunday with a 48-17 loss to the New Orleans Saints.

General manager Terry Fontenot is safe and will help lead the search with Blank and team CEO Rich McKay.

Smith's team had a negative point differential each season despite using a top-10 pick on an offensive weapon each year, selecting TE Kyle Pitts at No. 4 in 2021, Drake London at No. 8 in 2022, and Bijan Robinson at No. 8 in 2023.

There are four official head coaching vacancies — the Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers and Carolina Panthers — with more likely to open on Monday.

This article first appeared on The 33rd Team and was syndicated with permission.

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