Atlanta Falcons Owner Arthur Blank Contemplates Coach Smith’s Future Amidst Season Setbacks

Following a disappointing loss to the Carolina Panthers last Sunday, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank expressed the team’s stance on head coach Arthur Smith’s future, stating that they will “let the season play out and go from there.” Speaking with Georgia Public Broadcasting on Tuesday, Blank affirmed the organization’s commitment to Coach Smith but mentioned that they would assess their situation and make decisions accordingly after the season concludes.

The 9-7 defeat against the NFL’s lowest-ranked team marked the Falcons’ second consecutive loss, dropping them from the top spot in the NFC South and putting them at 6-8, requiring external assistance to secure a playoff berth. While Blank clarified that making the playoffs this season wasn’t a prerequisite for Smith to retain his position, he acknowledged the expectation for the team to demonstrate increased competitiveness. Atlanta had previously finished with a 7-10 record in both 2021 and 2022.

In a discussion with GPB, Blank acknowledged the mixed performance throughout this part of the season, emphasizing Smith’s self-critical approach and commitment to reflecting the values of his family in his leadership. Blank stated, “So we’ll see how the season plays out and go from there.”

The Falcons are set to kick off their final playoff push in Indianapolis, with Taylor Heinicke chosen as the starting quarterback over Desmond Ridder. Heinicke had previously replaced Ridder in losses against Minnesota and Arizona in November. Following the game against the Colts, Atlanta will conclude the regular season with away matches against the Chicago Bears and the New Orleans Saints. At 41 years old, Arthur Smith is currently in his third season as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.