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The College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta is set to unveil a powerful new exhibit titled Ascension: Rise of the Black Quarterback, chronicling the groundbreaking journey of Black quarterbacks in college football.
The exhibit, presented by Kia and Coca-Cola as part of the Hall’s Black History Month programming, will open ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and remain on display through early summer.
CF Hall of Fame Launches Exhibit Honoring Black Quarterbacks
It offers an immersive look at the evolution of Black quarterbacks—from eras of exclusion, stereotypes, and limited opportunities to their emergence as innovative leaders and elite performers at the game’s most scrutinized position.
Through compelling storytelling, rare historical artifacts, and data-driven analysis, Ascension directly addresses longstanding myths about intelligence, leadership, and athletic ability that historically barred Black athletes from the quarterback role.
The exhibit highlights the pivotal contributions of generations of players, coaches, and programs—especially those at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—that transformed the sport and paved the way for today’s landscape. Notably, Black quarterbacks now make up 50% of NFL starters for the first time in league history.
“Ascension tells a story that every fan and every young athlete should understand,” said Kimberly Beaudin, President and CEO of the College Football Hall of Fame. “It recognizes the barriers Black quarterbacks overcame and celebrates how their leadership, innovation, and excellence continue to shape the future of college football.”
The exhibit begins with early pioneers like Wade Hampton of Livingstone College and G.E. Ceasar of Biddle University, who faced off in the first documented HBCU football game in 1892.
It then spotlights iconic figures including Fritz Pollard, Charlie Ward, Steve McNair, Cam Newton, Lamar Jackson, and many others.
Visitors will explore how visionary HBCU coaches such as Eddie Robinson, John Merritt, and Archie Cooley introduced pro-style and high-powered offenses that prepared Black quarterbacks for success at the college and professional levels.
Among the standout artifacts on display—some on loan from the Pro Football Hall of Fame—are:
- Jimmy Jones’ 1969 replica USC helmet and a copy of Sports Illustrated featuring Jones on the cover, marking the first Black quarterback to appear on the magazine’s cover.
- Doug Williams’ 1977 letterman jacket from Grambling State University.
- Steve McNair’s 1994 SWAC First Team All-Conference Plaque.
- Bryce Young’s 2021 Alabama jersey.
- Jayden Daniels’ 2023 LSU helmet and headband.
Additional highlights include a comprehensive list of every Black quarterback who has won a Division I National Championship, along with those who claimed the Heisman Trophy.
As part of its mission to preserve and celebrate the complete history of college football, the College Football Hall of Fame presents Ascension as an opportunity for reflection on past struggles, recognition of progress, and deeper understanding of the sport’s ongoing evolution.
Fans, families, students, and visitors are encouraged to experience this timely and inspiring exhibit. For more details, including hours of operation, ticket prices, and visitor guidelines, visit cfbhall.com.
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Tex-Mex is that particular fusion of good Mexican food done Texas-style, and Atlanta has been here for it for a long time. If you want good Tex-Mex in Atlanta, there are some standout establishments that you should definitely check out.
This article will show you some of the best Atlanta restaurants for Tex-Mex cuisine.
What’s The Difference Between Tex-Mex And Mexican Food?
The difference between Tex-Mex and Mexican food may be one of semantics to many people: Mexican food quite naturally encompasses the food and culture inspired by a whole country, while Tex-Mex are the select Mexican dishes popularized and influenced by Texas sensibilities.
With all that said, Tex-Mex has some ingredients that you can find in many American cupboards and kitchen tables, while Mexican food has more hard-to-find products and is thus more exclusive.
Best Tex-Mex Food In Atlanta: What The People Say
Let’s look at some Atlanta restaurants with the best tacos according to the people. These eateries all have reviews with them so you can see how real customers feel about the place.
Red Pepper Taqueria
3135 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 869-2773
Here’s what one customer says about Red Pepper Taqueria: “The queso dip was good, but on the thick side. The salmon taco was soggy & had no taste. The lamb taco was the best thing I had. What made this place a bad experience was the wait staff. They were weird acting & we felt really rushed & unwelcome. The busboys were really nice tho. I wouldn’t go here again. Tin Lizzy’s is a million times better.”
Superica Restaurants
Atlanta Locations:
- Krog Street Market: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
- Buckhead: 3850 Roswell Rd NE #100, Atlanta, GA 30342
- The Battery Atlanta: 455 Legends Pl #800, Atlanta, GA 30339
- The Avalon: 1130 1st St #1030, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Here’s what one reviewer says about Superica: “Wow! Talk about the place to be on a Friday night. I highly recommend putting your name on this list 30-45 before you want to eat, but it will be worth the wait. Cool decor, atmosphere was positive and up beat. We got a text saying our table was ready, before we knew it we were greeted by Randall who was very knowledgeable of the menu. We received our drinks and guacamole rather quickly. You MUST try the tequila martini, because it is good.”
Chido & Padre’s
128 E Andrews Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 848-9100
Here’s what one patron says about Chido & Padre’s: ” The Birria Tacos were tasty and delicious and the drinks were just great. . This isn’t a typical Mexican restaurant which is obvious due to the creative menu. But nonetheless wonderful and worth every penny . Thank you for a wonderful experience can’t wait to return.”
Taqueria del Sol
Atlanta Locations:
- 1200-B, 1200-B Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
- 2165 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 321-1118
- 359 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030
- 5001 Peachtree Blvd Suite 910, Chamblee, GA 30341
Here’s what one reviewer says about Taqueria del Sol: “I had a brisket taco and a fried chicken taco. Both were delicious. The prices are very reasonable for the portions delivered. The ambiance is fresh and the staff is quite pleasant. I will go again and try other items.”
Bartaco
Atlanta Locations:
- 969 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 607-8226
- 299 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (470) 400-8226
Here’s what one customer says about Bartaco: “The pork belly tacos are amazing (5/5), the flavor just melts in your mouth ! The margarita drink was delicious! The chicken empanadas were good too — good texture and flavor (4/5) and the salsa that came with it had great flavor too.”
Agavero Cantina
1133 Huff Rd NW c, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 464-5250
Here’s what a customer says about Agavero Cantina: “Who knows Mexican food better than someone who grew up eating it, right, Jasmin? It’s always great to see you! Hope you’ll be back soon to join us for more of your favorite meals and margaritas.”
Final Word
When it comes to Tex-Mex, the best Atlanta restaurants have a knack for presentation and with creativity.
Tex-Mex food is delicious in that it uses many foods that other cuisines don’t. Try not to overdo it with the shredded cheese, beans and hot peppers. At the same time, it’s delicious.
Aside from Tex-Mex and Mexican eateries, Atlanta also has trendy restaurants that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Grindhouse Killer Burgers, the beloved Atlanta-born chain famous for its custom-blended burgers, is set to fire up its newest location in the Upper Westside this week.
The restaurant officially opens its doors on Wednesday, January 14, at 1221 Chattahoochee Avenue, right at the bustling corner of Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard and Chattahoochee Avenue.
Free Burgers at the Grand Opening
To mark the grand opening, the first 100 guests through the door will score a free Grindhouse Style Jr. Burger—loaded with American cheese, caramelized onions, lettuce, pickles, and that signature Grindhouse sauce.
If you’re a true Atlanta burger fan, you’d know that this marks the brand’s sixth standalone spot in the metro area, owned and operated by partners Alex Brounstein and Johnny Farrow.
Spanning a generous 7,000 square feet on a prime corner parcel next to Selig Enterprises’ The Works development, the new Grindhouse offers plenty of dedicated parking for dine-in guests and easy takeout pickup—perfect for the neighborhood’s mix of families, workers, and visitors.
Since Brounstein launched the first Grindhouse at the historic Sweet Auburn Curb Market back in 2009, the brand has built a loyal following with its proprietary Certified Angus Beef blend of chuck and brisket.
Burgers come in creative signature styles or fully customizable, with options like the recent addition of grilled chicken breast as a protein choice. Sides, hot dogs, salads, and a solid lineup of drinks round out the menu.
“The Upper Westside has a strong sense of community, and it felt like the right place for our next location,” said Brounstein. “The rooftop is an important part of our restaurants, and this one was designed as a comfortable place to enjoy good food and drinks. We’re looking forward to serving the Upper Westside.”
Designed by Studio SOGO Architecture, the two-story building delivers versatile vibes: the ground floor provides spacious indoor and covered outdoor seating geared toward quick-service meals and family-friendly dining. Upstairs (21+ only), you’ll find a full-service rooftop bar and shaded patio—ideal for catching games on multiple large-screen TVs, lingering over drinks, or soaking in the views.
Beyond its standalone spots across Atlanta and Athens, Grindhouse has airport outposts in Concourses T and D at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
The brand also ramps up with catering, a food truck, and partnerships like serving fans at University of Georgia games at Sanford Stadium. In 2025, they boosted their presence at Truist Park with three locations, including the Outfield Market and sections 315 and 335.
“Alex and Johnny have built an iconic Atlanta brand, and we are excited to welcome them as a tenant in the Selig portfolio,” said Mindy Selig, Co-CEO of Selig Enterprises. “This location is the perfect place for Grindhouse and they are a great addition to the community.”
When it opens, the Upper Westside Grindhouse will operate Wednesday through Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed Tuesdays, based on the provided details).
Final Word
Burger lovers in Underwood Hills and beyond—get ready. The Upper Westside just got a whole lot tastier. Head over starting Wednesday and see what the hype is about!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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In a move that’s already sending shockwaves through the Dirty South sports scene, the Atlanta Falcons announced Saturday, Jan. 10 that franchise icon Matt Ryan has been named the team’s new President of Football.
Owner and Chairman Arthur M. Blank made the blockbuster hire official on Saturday, bringing back the former NFL MVP to lead all football operations for the organization.
Matt Ryan Named President of Atlanta Falcons Football
Ryan, who spent 14 unforgettable seasons under center for the Falcons (2008-2021), assumes the role immediately.
He’ll report directly to Blank and work closely with President and CEO Greg Beadles to align football and business sides of the team.
Both the incoming head coach and general manager — positions currently open following last week’s firings of Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot — will report directly to Ryan, giving the 2016 league MVP final say on major football decisions.
“Throughout his remarkable 14-year career in Atlanta, Matt’s leadership, attention to detail, knowledge of the game and unrelenting drive to win made him the most successful player in our franchise’s history,” Blank said in a statement. “From his playing days to his time as an analyst at CBS, Matt has always been a student of the game, and he brings an astute understanding of today’s NFL, as well as unique knowledge of our organization and this market. I have full confidence and trust in Matt as we strive to deliver a championship caliber team for Atlanta and Falcons fans everywhere.”
Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft out of Boston College, holds virtually every major passing record in Falcons history: 59,735 yards, 367 touchdowns, a 94.6 passer rating, and a franchise-best 120-102 regular-season record.
He led Atlanta to five playoff appearances, two NFC Championship games, and a Super Bowl run in 2016, when he earned NFL MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and first-team All-Pro honors.
After a one-year stint with the Indianapolis Colts and three seasons as a respected CBS Sports analyst, Ryan is back where it all began.
“Arthur gave me the chance of a lifetime almost twenty years ago, and he’s done it again today,” Ryan said. “While I appreciate the time I had with the Colts and with CBS, I’ve always been a Falcon. It feels great to be home. I could not be more excited, grateful, or humbled by this new opportunity.”
Ryan emphasized his commitment to rebuilding the culture in Flowery Branch: “I know first-hand what a great foundation this organization has and I’m confident we can build on that and cement a culture of accountability, tenacity, resilience and winning… My commitment to the success of this franchise has not changed. I’m beyond ready to help write a new chapter of excellence.”
The Falcons have missed the playoffs for eight straight seasons — a drought that started before Ryan’s final year as starter in 2021.
Fans are hoping the return of “Matty Ice” signals a new era of competitiveness for the black and red.
Ryan will jump straight into the search for Atlanta’s next head coach and general manager, with the team expected to move quickly.
Welcome home, Matt. Rise Up.
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There’s nothing like chilling with a vintage wine on a cozy Atlanta night. But for far too many of us, we don’t know the story behind the bottle. Enter Dunwoody’s beloved Vino Venue. The establishment is kicking off the new year with an exciting addition to its lineup of wine-focused experiences.
The popular wine bar, retail shop, and education center at 4478 Chamblee Dunwoody Road is introducing a new weekly Friday wine tasting series, responding directly to guest feedback for more wine-forward events.
Vino Venue Launches Wine Tastings
These casual, drop-in tastings are designed to be approachable and social, perfect for wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Each Friday from 6-8 p.m., guests can enjoy four curated wines centered around a rotating theme, paired with light nibbles, all for just $25 per person. No reservations required—just drop in and discover something new.
The series launches tonight, January 9, with the theme “New Year New Wines.” This inaugural event will feature four wines that are brand new to Vino Venue or the market, accompanied by elevated complimentary bites to mark the special occasion.
Looking ahead, the January lineup includes:
- January 16: Cabs Around the World – Exploring Cabernet Sauvignon variations from global regions.
- January 23: Classic French Regions – A journey through iconic French wine areas.
- January 30: Exploring Tannin – Diving into the structure and impact of tannins in wine.
This new series aligns perfectly with Vino Venue’s ongoing evolution toward emphasizing wine education, tastings, and retail—building on its roots as home to the Atlanta Wine School.
Final Word
Whether you’re unwinding after a long week or gathering with friends, these Friday evenings promise a relaxed way to expand your palate and keeps you running to your local liquor store.
For more details or to check the latest events, visit vinovenue.com or call (770) 668-0435. Cheers to new wine discoveries this year.
The ATL has other cool places for food and drink as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
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As the dust settles on the 2025 season, the Atlanta Falcons have wrapped up with an 8-9 record and a third-place finish in the NFC South. That positioning has now finalized the team’s opponents for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.
The Falcons will once again face their NFC South rivals twice each – home and away – while matching up against the full NFC North and AFC North divisions.
Falcons’ 2026 Opponents Revealed
Additional games come from the rotating schedule: a road trip to face the third-place NFC East finisher (Washington Commanders) and home contests against the third-place teams from the NFC West (San Francisco 49ers) and AFC West (Kansas City Chiefs).
Here’s the complete breakdown of the Falcons’ 2026 opponents, with each team’s 2025 record noted for context:
Home Opponents at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Carolina Panthers (8-9)
- New Orleans Saints (6-11)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)
- Chicago Bears (11-6)
- Detroit Lions (9-8)
- Baltimore Ravens (8-8)
- Cincinnati Bengals (6-11)
- San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
- Kansas City Chiefs (6-11)
Note: One of these home games will be designated as an international matchup, per the NFL’s award to the Falcons in December 2025. The specific opponent, location, and date will be revealed later.
Away Opponents
- at Carolina Panthers (8-9)
- at New Orleans Saints (6-11)
- at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)
- at Green Bay Packers (9-7-1)
- at Minnesota Vikings (9-8)
- at Cleveland Browns (5-12)
- at Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
- at Washington Commanders (5-12)
The full 2026 schedule, including dates, times, and prime-time slots, will be released by the NFL this spring. In the meantime, Falcons fans can start marking their calendars for what promises to be an exciting slate right here in Atlanta!
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for all the latest Falcons news, analysis, and offseason updates as the team gears up for 2026. Rise Up!
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Atlanta food lovers, the wait is over—Mirae, the sleek modern Asian-fusion gem from husband-and-wife team John and Grace Lee (the creative minds behind beloved Chamblee spot Fūdo), is officially rolling out its complete dining experience at Parkside on Dresden.
After debuting in late October with a limited menu and weekend-only service, Mirae is now expanding its offerings and hours starting today, Thursday, January 8, 2026.
The restaurant has evolved into a thoughtful, coursed dining destination that beautifully blends rich Asian culinary traditions with comforting, reimagined classics—perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a special night out in Brookhaven.
Highlights from the expanded menu include:
- Chilean Seabass soy-infused with cauliflower puree, nasturtium oil & tuile
- Matsukasa Yaki featuring king oyster mushroom, truffle shoyu, rice cracker & consommé
- Miso Short Ribs paired with wasabi mashed potatoes
- Aged Wagyu Don with goma abura, nori, Nanatsuboshi rice, yuzu cream & nama tamago
- Luxe pasta options: bafun uni & truffle or Hokkaido scallop & wasabi cream
Plus, plenty of shareable plates, hearty hot dishes, and artful desserts to round out the lineup.
The bar program steps up too, with an impressive selection of craft cocktails, sakes, sojus, and a refined wine list designed to match the menu’s layered flavors.
New sips to try include the Winter Blossom (spiced rum, lychee, citrus & falernum) and the refreshing Jade Highball (reposado tequila, shochu, matcha, lemon & orgeat).
To mark the occasion, Mirae is hosting a special neighborhood gathering tonight, Thursday, January 8, from 5-10pm.
Stop by for live music from 6-9pm, complimentary amuse bouche bites, and a free glass of sparkling wine—no RSVP needed.
It’s the perfect way to check out the new vibes in Brookhaven’s walkable dining scene!
Mirae is now open for dinner:
- Tuesday–Thursday: 5–10pm
- Friday–Saturday: 5–11pm
Reservations are recommended via Resy, but walk-ins are always welcome.
Photos of the stunning space and dishes are available courtesy of Andrew Thomas Lee—trust us, they’ll make you hungry just looking!
Head over to 1350 Dresden Dr. in Brookhaven and see why Mirae is quickly becoming a must-visit for Atlanta’s Asian-fusion scene. We’ll see you there!
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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In a league where superstars can shift the balance of power overnight, the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly positioning themselves for one of the biggest acquisitions in franchise history: Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis.
As the 2025-26 NBA trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling that the Hawks could be the frontrunners to land the nine-time All-Star, potentially reshaping the Eastern Conference and igniting a new era of Hawks basketball.
Hawks Considering Anthony Davis
Sources indicate that the Hawks have Davis high on their wish list, viewing him as a transformative piece who could anchor their defense and provide elite scoring alongside emerging talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Dyson Daniels.
With Atlanta having traded All-Star guard Trae Young—whose dynamic playstyle has been a staple but perhaps not the perfect fit for long-term contention—the team sees a potential deal for Davis as a way to pivot toward a more balanced, championship-caliber roster.
Davis, currently with the Mavericks, has been the subject of intense speculation amid Dallas’s recent skid and questions about their title window.
The 32-year-old big man, known for his dominant two-way play, is averaging impressive numbers this season despite the team’s struggles.
League insiders report that Davis is open to a move to Atlanta, where he could sign an extension and chase another ring in a fresh environment.
This willingness aligns with Atlanta’s aggressive approach, as the Hawks join the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors as expected suitors.
However, the path to acquiring Davis isn’t without hurdles.
The Hawks are reportedly not rushing a Young trade, and financial considerations loom large—pairing Davis’s max contract with Young’s would be challenging, making a Young-for-Davis swap unlikely given Dallas’s lack of interest.
Instead, Atlanta might need to orchestrate a multi-team deal, potentially involving assets like their control over the New Orleans Pelicans’ 2026 first-round pick, which has drawn interest from the Mavericks in return packages.
Critics argue that passing on Davis could be a missed opportunity for the Hawks, especially as they aim to climb back into playoff relevance after a middling start to the season.
Imagine Davis patrolling the paint at State Farm Arena, blocking shots and posterizing opponents—it’s the kind of addition that could electrify the fanbase and make Atlanta a destination for free agents once again.
As talks heat up, Hawks fans should stay tuned. If this deal materializes, it could be the spark that propels Atlanta back into the NBA’s elite. What do you think, ATL? Sound off in the comments below!
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In a stunning development that ends an era in Hawks basketball, the Atlanta Hawks have traded four-time All-Star point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards.
In return, Atlanta receives veteran guard CJ McCollum and wing Corey Kispert, with no draft picks involved in the deal, according to multiple reports including ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Hawks Trade Trae Young To Wizards
This move, in the works for days now, marks the close of Young’s remarkable seven-plus-year run with the Hawks, where he became the face of the franchise after being drafted in 2018. The Hawks are reportedly eyeing Dallas big man Anthony Davis.
Former NBA player and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins reacted strongly to the deal, praising the Hawks’ pivot while hyping Young’s potential impact in Washington: “The Hawks made the right move. They got a young up-and-coming star in Jalen Johnson who is now their franchise player who is going to be the face of that franchise for a long time.”
Young, who led Atlanta to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021 and earned four All-Star nods plus All-NBA honors in 2022, has been central to some of the most exciting moments in recent Hawks history.
His elite scoring and playmaking — including leading the league in assists last season — made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
However, recent challenges set the stage for this split.
Basketball analyst Ciaran O’Neill gave high marks to both sides: “Wizards Grade: A. The Wizards buy low on 4x All-Star Trae Young, who will be their new franchise player and point guard of the future. He will be a great player to set up their abundance of young wings such as Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, and Keyshawn George. This deal gives Wizards fans a light at the end of the tunnel that they could potentially be a playoff team next year.”
The Hawks have struggled this season with Young in the lineup, posting a poor record and defensive issues, while the team has shown better pace, ball movement, and defensive intensity in games without him.
With significant front-office changes, a new head coach in Quin Snyder, and Young’s looming $49 million player option for next season limiting Atlanta’s flexibility, both sides saw a fresh start as the best path forward.
The trade reunites Young with Travis Schlenk — the executive who originally brought him to Atlanta and is now the Wizards’ vice president of player personnel.
Washington, deep in a rebuild with young talent and ample cap space, views Young as a high-upside addition who can orchestrate the offense, create for emerging players, and provide a spark to end their playoff drought (last appearance: 2021). The Wizards can absorb his contract without issue and potentially build around him long-term.
For the Hawks, the incoming pieces offer immediate value and future flexibility:
- CJ McCollum brings veteran leadership, reliable scoring (averaging around 18-19 points this season), and an expiring $30.6 million contract that opens up cap room and trade possibilities this summer.
- Corey Kispert adds sharpshooting from the wing on a team-friendly deal, complementing Atlanta’s young core including Jalen Johnson, Zaccharie Risacher, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
This deal allows the Hawks to pivot toward a more balanced, defense-oriented, and younger identity that has shown promise in stretches this season.
It also positions Atlanta to pursue other moves — potentially even targeting a big name like Anthony Davis — as they aim to climb back into Eastern Conference contention.
Final Word
Hawks fans, it’s the end of the Ice Trae era in Atlanta, but the beginning of something new. We’ll miss the logo threes, the clutch performances, and the energy he brought every night.
Thank you, Trae, for the memories — from that ECF run to countless highlight-reel plays.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for reactions, analysis, and what’s next for the Hawks. What do you think of the trade? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! #HawksNation #TradeSZN
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Just days after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris, the veteran NFL coach is already generating buzz around the league as a top candidate for multiple head coaching vacancies.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Morris is scheduled to interview for the head coaching positions with the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, and Tennessee Titans.
The report indicates that Morris will conduct in-person meetings with all three teams over the next eight days, marking a quick rebound for the 49-year-old coach following his dismissal in Atlanta.
The Falcons finished the 2025 campaign with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season under the current regime. Morris, who was hired in 2024, compiled a 16-18 record over two seasons in Atlanta.
The move came as a surprise to some fans but was seen as necessary by team owner Arthur Blank, who cited the need for “new leadership” after repeated disappointing finishes despite high expectations surrounding the team.
Despite the short tenure in Atlanta, Morris remains highly regarded league-wide for his defensive expertise and leadership. He previously served as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2011 and as interim head coach for the Falcons in 2020.
More recently, he has been praised for his work as a defensive coordinator and assistant coach with several teams.
Morris was let go by the Falcons on Sunday night alongside general manager Terry Fontenot, hours after the team’s season-ending 19-17 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
The Cardinals, Giants, and Titans are all in the market for new head coaches following their own disappointing 2025 seasons.
The Giants and Titans made midseason changes earlier in the year, while the Cardinals are seeking fresh direction as well.
Morris’s quick pivot to these interviews underscores his strong reputation among NFL decision-makers.
With a packed schedule ahead, the former Falcons coach could be one of the first major hires of the 2026 coaching carousel.
Falcons fans will be watching closely as Morris looks to land his next opportunity, while the search for Atlanta’s next head coach continues with several names already emerging as potential candidates.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for the latest updates on the Falcons’ coaching search and the ongoing NFL hiring cycle.
