Report reveals if Bill Belichick to Falcons is a done deal

The Atlanta Falcons hiring Bill Belichick as their next head coach isn't a foregone conclusion.

Jonathon Jones of CBS Sports reported Atlanta's brass conducted a second interview with the former Patriots HC on Friday. However, the HC search will be an extensive process.

"This will be one of the most comprehensive head coach searches in [NFL] history," an anonymous source told Jones. 

The Falcons have already interviewed nine candidates, including Texans offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik and Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson; and they can't hire a candidate until they fulfill the Rooney Rule.  

Belichick is one of the greatest coaches of all time and could help Atlanta turn things around after six straight losing seasons. In 24 seasons with the Patriots, he won six Super Bowls and was Coach of the Year three times. 

Belichick had control over personnel decisions during his tenure in New England and may want to change the structure of the Falcons front office, which could be problematic. Team CEO Rich McKay has been with the organization since 2003, and general manager Terry Fontenot is on a six-year deal.

But Jones noted team owner Arthur Blank "desperately" wants to hire Belichick. He might be willing to make changes to convince him to take the job.

Although Atlanta went 7-10, it's in a good position to rebuild. The Falcons roster includes talented young playmakers, such as running back Bijan Robinson and wide receiver Drake London. They also have the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, within range to select a franchise quarterback.

Still, it won't matter if they hire the wrong HC. It's good that Atlanta is being thorough, but it should try to land a proven candidate like Belichick — if he wants the job.