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In a move that provides immediate salary cap relief and sets a clear timeline for the future, the Atlanta Falcons and veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins have agreed to modify the final two years of his contract, according to ESPN’s Field Yates.
The restructuring significantly reduces Cousins’ 2026 base salary from $35 million (non-guaranteed) to just $2.1 million, shifting the $32.9 million difference to increase his 2027 compensation.
Key Decision Looms by March 13 for Cousins, Falcons
This adjustment also adds a $67.9 million vesting guarantee for the 2027 season that activates on March 13—the third day of the 2026 NFL league year.
As a result, the Falcons must decide on Cousins’ future with the team well before that date, as it’s highly unlikely any organization (including Atlanta) would absorb such a massive guarantee.
This agreement offers upside for both parties. For the Falcons, the immediate drop in Cousins’ cap hit creates much-needed flexibility as the team navigates a major organizational overhaul following the recent departures of head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.
Atlanta now has more room to maneuver in free agency and the draft while searching for new leadership to guide the franchise forward.
For Cousins, the 37-year-old signal-caller, the modification clarifies his status: he is poised to become a free agent by March 13 at the latest.
This timeline gives him and the broader NFL market certainty, allowing potential suitors to plan accordingly without the overhang of an enormous 2027 commitment.
Importantly, the restructure does not impact any previously guaranteed money owed to Cousins, and it doesn’t preclude a return to Atlanta.
The veteran, who expressed after the Falcons’ season-ending win over the New Orleans Saints that he would “love” to stay in Atlanta, could still negotiate a new deal with the incoming regime if both sides align on vision and role.
High Hopes When Cousins Arrived in Atlanta
Cousins joined the Falcons ahead of the 2024 season on a four-year, $180 million contract, bringing veteran stability to the quarterback room. After a full season as starter in 2024, he transitioned to a backup role in 2025 behind first-round pick Michael Penix Jr.
An injury to Penix opened the door for Cousins to start the final seven games, where he went 5-3 while throwing 10 touchdowns against five interceptions in 10 total appearances (eight starts).
With Penix expected to reclaim the starting job in 2026 (barring setbacks in his recovery from a season-ending knee injury), the Falcons appear positioned to move forward with the younger quarterback long-term.
A post-June 1 release designation remains a likely outcome if no extension materializes, allowing Atlanta to spread any remaining dead cap money across 2026 and 2027 while maximizing near-term flexibility.
As the Falcons embark on their search for a new general manager and head coach, this contract tweak provides a clean slate at the game’s most important position.
Whether Cousins finishes his career in Atlanta or begins a new chapter elsewhere, today’s agreement represents a pragmatic step forward for all involved.
Final Word
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for the latest updates on the Falcons’ offseason moves, coaching search, and what comes next for the quarterback position. #RiseUp
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In a development that could signal the end of an era for the Atlanta Hawks, four-time All-Star guard Trae Young and his representatives are actively working with the franchise to explore trade options, sources told ESPN on Monday.
Young’s agents — Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison, and Austin Brown of CAA — have engaged in positive and collaborative discussions with Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh over the past week, aiming to find a mutually agreeable resolution, according to the report from ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Trae Young, Hawks in Talks Before Trade Deadline
The 27-year-old Young, drafted by Atlanta in 2018 after a draft-night trade with Dallas, has been the cornerstone of the franchise for nearly eight seasons.
He holds the Hawks’ all-time records for 3-pointers made and assists, and led the team to three postseason appearances, including a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021.
However, the relationship appears to have reached a turning point. The Hawks notably declined to offer Young a contract extension last summer, fueling speculation about his long-term future in Atlanta.
This season has added to the uncertainty: Young has been limited to just 10 games due to leg injuries, with the Hawks posting a 2-8 record in those contests compared to 15-12 without him. Opponents have scored nearly 10 fewer points per game when Young sits, per ESPN Research.
Emerging talents like forward Jalen Johnson — who is averaging impressive numbers this season — and recent additions such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker have shifted the team’s dynamics, prompting questions about whether Atlanta is ready to build around a new core.
While no specific trade destinations have been confirmed by the Hawks or Young’s camp, early rumors have linked potential suitors, including discussions involving teams like the Washington Wizards.
The NBA trade deadline is February 5, leaving just a month for negotiations to intensify.
Hawks fans have mixed emotions about the news, with Young’s electrifying playstyle — including his deep range and playmaking wizardry — making him a beloved figure at State Farm Arena.
Yet, the team’s struggles to build sustained contention around him have led many to wonder if a fresh start could benefit both sides.
The Hawks organization has not commented publicly on the report as of Monday evening. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Journal for updates as this story develops.
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Less than 24 hours after the Atlanta Falcons parted ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, Morris is already drawing interest from another NFL team.
According to ESPN’s Peter Schrager, the Tennessee Titans plan to interview the former Falcons coach for their vacant head coaching position later this week.
The news comes as the NFL’s coaching carousel spins into high gear following “Black Monday.”
The Falcons fired Morris on Sunday night despite the team closing the 2025 season with a four-game winning streak and an 8-9 record – matching the mark from his first season in 2024.
Over two years at the helm in Atlanta, Morris compiled a 16-18 record but failed to reach the playoffs, prompting owner Arthur Blank to seek new leadership.
Morris, 49, is no stranger to head coaching opportunities. He previously served as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ head coach from 2009-2011 and as the Falcons’ interim coach in 2020 (4-7 record).
His most notable success came as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, where he helped lead the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2021.
For Falcons fans, the quick interest in Morris from Tennessee may come as a mixed bag.
While his tenure here ended without postseason success, Morris was widely respected in the locker room for his player-friendly approach and ability to foster team unity.
Players Voiced Support for Morris
Players like Jessie Bates III and Bijan Robinson publicly supported him late in the season, crediting his leadership for the late surge.
Falcons Owner Sought a Change
On NFL.com, Kevin Patra noted the futility of the hot streak: “A four-game winning streak to end the season couldn’t save the jobs of Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.”
The Falcoholic’s Dave Choate cited insiders on the premeditated nature: “Per NFL insiders Ollie Connolly and Josina Anderson… Atlanta has ‘had feelers’ out to potential candidates for weeks now and were going to fire both Morris and Fontenot regardless of the season’s end result.”
The Titans, who fired Brian Callahan earlier in the 2025 season and finished with another disappointing campaign, are casting a wide net in their search.
Reports indicate they are also eyeing recently fired coaches like Kevin Stefanski (Cleveland Browns) and several high-profile coordinators.
Morris is expected to draw interest from multiple teams for both head coaching and defensive coordinator roles, given his track record on defense and reputation as a strong communicator.
As the Falcons turn the page and begin their own search for a new head coach and GM – with names like Kevin Stefanski already linked – it’s clear Morris won’t be out of work for long.
We’ll keep you updated on any further developments involving former Falcons staff as the offseason unfolds.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for full coverage of the coaching search and all things Dirty Birds. Rise Up!
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In a move that signals a significant shift in the Atlanta Falcons’ front office structure, the team is set to introduce a new president of football operations role, with former star quarterback Matt Ryan emerging as the frontrunner for the position.
Ryan is set to interview this weekend — Friday or Saturday, signaliing he and the organization’s willingness to get a deal done quickly.
This development, widely reported by football insiders including Adam Shefter, comes as longtime executive Rich McKay steps away from his CEO duties with the Falcons, transitioning to a broader role within owner Arthur Blank’s business empire.
It also occurs one day after Blank fired Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot.
Falcons Set To Hire Matt Ryan in Front Office
Sources close to the organization indicate that the new president of football operations will hold primary decision-making authority over all team-related matters, including personnel, coaching, and strategy. This restructuring aims to streamline football decisions and inject fresh leadership into a franchise looking to build on recent progress under head coach Morris.
Ryan, who spent 14 seasons as the Falcons’ quarterback from 2008 to 2021, is widely regarded as one of the most beloved figures in team history.
Although it was first reported that Ryan may wish to hold onto his NFL commentator job for TV, it looks like he is willing to let it go and give the Falcons his all.
The 2016 NFL MVP led Atlanta to a Super Bowl appearance and holds numerous franchise records, including passing yards and touchdowns.
After retiring following a stint with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, Ryan has stayed connected to the game through broadcasting and philanthropy, often expressing his deep ties to the Atlanta community.”Matt Ryan embodies the Falcons’ spirit—resilient, intelligent, and deeply committed to winning,” said a team insider who spoke on condition of anonymity. “His football acumen and understanding of the organization’s culture make him an ideal candidate to guide the team forward.”
McKay, who has been with the Falcons since 2003 and served as CEO since 2011, will no longer oversee day-to-day football operations. Instead, he will focus on Arthur Blank’s expansive portfolio, which includes AMB Sports and Entertainment, encompassing the Falcons, Atlanta United FC, and Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
McKay’s tenure has been marked by key achievements, such as the construction of the state-of-the-art stadium and navigating the team through multiple rebuilds.
“Rich has been instrumental in shaping the Falcons into a first-class organization,” Blank said in a statement released earlier today. “His expertise will continue to benefit our entire family of businesses as we evolve.”
The creation of this new position reflects a growing trend in the NFL, where teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs have empowered dedicated football executives to handle on-field decisions separately from business operations.
For the Falcons, who finished the 2025 season with a 8-9 record but missed the playoffs, this could provide the stability needed to contend in the competitive NFC South.
Final Word
Fans have already taken to social media to express excitement about Ryan’s potential return. “Matty Ice back in the building? That’s the spark we need!” one supporter posted on social media.
An official announcement is expected in the coming days, with the team holding a press conference at Flowery Branch.
As the Falcons prepare for the offseason, including free agency and the NFL Draft, this leadership change could be the catalyst for a new era of success in Atlanta.Stay tuned to Atlanta Pro Football Insider for updates on this story and all things Falcons.
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In a move signaling a fresh start for the franchise, the Atlanta Falcons announced late Sunday that searches for a new head coach and general manager will commence immediately
This comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025 season, where the team finished with a sub-.500 record and missed the playoffs for the eighth consecutive year.
Falcons Begin Search for New Coach, GM
The Falcons’ front office has been under scrutiny since the abrupt firing of former GM Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris after Sunday’s win over the New Orleans Saints.
Team owner Arthur Blank and president Rich McKay emphasized the urgency of the process in a press release, stating that the organization is committed to finding the right leaders to guide the Falcons back to contention in the NFC South.
“We are excited to begin this journey and build a winning culture that our fans deserve,” Blank said.
To aid in the head coach search, the Falcons have enlisted the expertise of ZRG Partners, a global executive search firm known for its work in sports and entertainment.
ZRG has previously assisted in high-profile NFL hires, bringing a data-driven approach to identifying top coaching talent.
For the general manager position, the team will partner with Sportsology Group, a consultancy specializing in sports executive searches.
Sportsology has a track record of helping franchises like the New York Giants and Washington Commanders in similar roles, focusing on strategic organizational builds.
No specific timeline has been established for completing either search, allowing the Falcons flexibility to thoroughly evaluate candidates.
However, the processes will run concurrently, enabling potential synergies between the new coach and GM hires. This parallel approach could expedite the overall rebuild, as the two roles often intersect in player personnel decisions and team vision.
Final Word
Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that these searches will yield innovative leaders capable of maximizing the talents of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and a young core of players.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on potential candidates, interviews, and all things Falcons as this story develops. What do you think of the hires? Sound off in the comments below!
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In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the Falcons faithful, the Atlanta Falcons announced the dismissal of Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot on Sunday evening, capping off a tumultuous 2025 season that fell far short of expectations.
The announcement came via a press release from team owner Arthur Blank, who cited the need for a “fresh direction” after the Falcons finished the year with a disappointing 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the eighth consecutive season.
Falcons Part Ways With Raheem Morris, Terry Fontenot
“I have great personal affinity for both Raheem and Terry and appreciate their hard work and dedication to the Falcons, but I believe we need new leadership in these roles moving forward,” Falcons owner Arthur Blank said in a statement. “The decision to move away from people who represent the organization so well and have a shared commitment to the values that are important to the organization is not an easy one, but the results on the field have not met our expectations or those of our fans and leadership. I wish Raheem and Terry the absolute best in their future pursuits.”
Morris, 49, was hired as the Falcons’ head coach in 2024 following a successful stint as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, where he helped lead them to a Super Bowl victory in 2021.
His tenure in Atlanta began with promise, as the team showed flashes of defensive improvement and offensive creativity in his first year.
However, injuries to key players like quarterback Michael Penix Jr., less-than-stellar play from Kirk Cousins and misused running back Bijan Robinson, combined with inconsistent play-calling, derailed the 2025 campaign. The Falcons ranked 28th in total defense and struggled with late-game collapses, including a mid season stint where they loss seven of eight games.
Fontenot, who joined the Falcons as GM in 2021 after a long career in the New Orleans Saints’ front office, oversaw a roster rebuild that included high-profile draft picks like edge rusher Dallas Turner and wide receiver Rome Odunze.
While his talent evaluation was praised early on—particularly for selecting Robinson in the 2023 draft—the past two seasons exposed flaws in free agency decisions and salary cap management. Critics pointed to overpaid contracts for aging veterans and a lack of depth on the offensive line as key factors in the team’s underperformance.
The firings come on the eve of what is traditionally known as “Black Monday” in the NFL, the day after the regular season when underperforming teams make sweeping changes.
Atlanta’s decision was unexpected by some, given Morris’s defensive background and Fontenot’s track record in player scouting, but fan frustration had been building throughout the year. Social media erupted with calls for change after a string of blowout losses in November and December.
Former Falcons greats weighed in on the news. Hall of Fame quarterback Matt Ryan, now a broadcaster, expressed surprise but understanding: “Raheem brought energy and a player’s coach mentality, but results matter in this league. Terry built a young core, but the wins didn’t come. Atlanta deserves better.”
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Blank indicated that the search for new leadership would begin immediately, with an emphasis on candidates who can maximize the team’s young talent and navigate the upcoming draft, where the Falcons hold the No. 8 overall pick.
Potential head coaching candidates rumored to be on the radar include Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, known for his innovative schemes, and former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, who has expressed interest in returning to the NFL.
For the GM role, names like Kansas City Chiefs assistant GM Mike Borgonzi and Baltimore Ravens director of player personnel Joe Hortiz have surfaced in early speculation.
This marks the third head coaching change for the Falcons since their Super Bowl LI appearance in 2017, highlighting the ongoing instability in the front office. Fans, who have endured years of mediocrity, are hopeful that Blank’s latest reset will finally turn the tide.
The Atlanta Sports Gazette will provide updates as the coaching and GM searches unfold. For now, the Dirty Birds are once again at a crossroads, searching for the leaders to soar back into contention.
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The Atlanta Falcons play the New Orleans Saints on Sunday in the season finale for both teams. With Kirk Cousins back under center, the question remains: Can the Falcons win it?
These games are always high-profile for the NFL and this is no different, with both teams vying for victory. Below, you’ll find all the details on how to watch their upcoming game and a look at the historical context of this storied matchup.
The Falcons are eager to see how their new team competes for the 2025 schedule wraps.
- Matchup: Atlanta Falcons (7-9) vs New Orleans Saints (5-10)
- Date & Time: Sunday, January 3, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
- Streaming: free at fubuTV
- TV Channel: Amazon Prime
If you want to see the game, or more accurately, watch the game on TV, you’ve got options, including streaming and more.
This article will go over some ways you can watch the Falcons for free.
Can I Stream The Falcons Game?
You can watch the Falcons games live throughout the season with YoutubeTV’s NFL Sunday Ticket. It includes access to over 160 out-of-market NFL games on Sunday afternoons. College students can get the subscription for $199.
Here are some ways you can never miss a down of Falcons football this season.
Watch On Cable TV
In Atlanta, you can usually watch the Falcons on FOX 5, which is the local TV affiliate in the market. You can watch the game for free across all devices — just sign in with your TV provider credentials.
Alternatively, you can buy a pretty cheap antenna for less than $20 to tune in local channels around your area.
Sign Up For A Streaming Service
You can watch the Falcons game for free at fubuTV, which has a 7-day trial. Watch immediately upon signup.
Watch On The Falcons App
Watch the games live on the official Falcons mobile app for iOS or Android. On the app, you can watch highlights, game previews and exclusive content from the team.
Watch On The NFL App
The NFL’s Mobile App (iOS and Android) has access to all your favorite games, including the Atlanta Falcons.
Once you download the app, you can tune in to live local and primetime games.
Falcons vs. Saints: A History
As of early January 2026, the teams have played 113 games (regular season + playoffs), with the record extremely close:
- Atlanta Falcons lead the overall series 57–56 (including 1 postseason win for Atlanta).
- Regular season only: 56–56 (tied).
Final Word
The Falcons have often relied on their offensive firepower, with players like running back Bijan Robinson (1,286 yards, 12 TDs in 2024) and wide receiver Drake London (90 catches, 1,084 yards, 7 TDs in 2024). How will it go this year?
As an additional way, you can watch the Falcons for free (Prime Video) on Thursday Night Football.
It happens once this season, and you can read all about it.
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In a heartbreaking finish to the 2025 season, the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs fell 39-34 to the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day.
The Dawgs, fresh off an SEC championship, led by nine points at halftime but couldn’t hold off a furious second-half rally from the Rebels, capped by a 47-yard game-winning field goal with six seconds remaining.
Georgia finishes the year 12-2, with both losses coming in high-stakes postseason environments. Here are five key takeaways from Thursday night’s stunning defeat:
1. The Fourth-Quarter Magic Finally Ran Out
Georgia entered the game with an impeccable record in close contests, but the Bulldogs’ streak of resilience in the final frame came to an end.
After building a 21-12 halftime lead behind strong rushing from Nate Frazier and Cash Jones, the offense stalled in the second half, managing just three points on their first four possessions after the break.
A late rally tied the game at 34-34 on a Peyton Woodring field goal with 56 seconds left, but Ole Miss quickly responded with a 40-yard bomb to set up the winner. The Dawgs had won 75 straight games when leading entering the fourth quarter — until tonight.
2. Gunner Stockton Showed Promise, But Inexperience Showed in Crunch Time
First-year starter Gunner Stockton battled valiantly in his biggest stage yet, completing 15 of 31 passes for 219 yards and a touchdown while adding a scrambling score on the ground.
He engineered key drives late, including the game-tying march, displaying the toughness and improvisation that could make him a star in 2026.
However, critical sacks and a late fumble on a chaotic kickoff return highlighted the growing pains of a young quarterback facing a relentless Ole Miss pass rush. Stockton’s performance offers hope for the future, but the margin for error in playoff football proved too slim.
3. Defense Couldn’t Contain Trinidad Chambliss’ Heroics
The Bulldogs’ vaunted defense, which had rounded into elite form late in the season, struggled to slow down Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss in the second half.
The Division II transfer turned portal gem went 30-for-46 for 362 yards and two touchdowns, repeatedly escaping pressure with magical scrambles and hitting big plays to receivers like Harrison Wallace III (156 yards, TD) and De’Zhaun Stribling (122 yards).
Chambliss’ 40-yard completion in the final seconds set up the decisive kick. Georgia forced some stops but allowed Ole Miss to outscore them 20-10 in the fourth, avenging the Rebels’ regular-season loss in Athens.
4. Special Teams and Late Execution Proved Costly
Kirby Smart’s aggressive calls — including a successful fake punt that led to points — kept Georgia in control early. But in the end, execution faltered: a missed facemask non-call aided a drive, a fumbled kickoff return led to a safety, and chaotic laterals on the final play sealed the defeat.
Kicker Peyton Woodring was solid, but the inability to punch in a touchdown from close range late forced a tying field goal instead of a potential lead.
Small mistakes in a thriller like this were magnified against a hot Ole Miss team playing with house money.
5. End of an Era? Questions Loom for 2026
This marks back-to-back playoff quarterfinal exits for Georgia, a stark contrast to the dominant 2021-2022 title runs.
With key departures looming on both lines and in the secondary, plus the transfer portal churning, Kirby Smart faces a rebuild to sustain the Bulldogs’ elite status in an expanding SEC.
The young core — led by Stockton, Frazier, and emerging defenders — provides optimism, but falling short against a resilient Ole Miss squad (now heading to the Fiesta Bowl semifinal) underscores the razor-thin margins in today’s college football landscape.
Final Word
Dawg Nation will process this one for a while, but the foundation remains strong in Athens. On to recruiting and the offseason. Go Dawgs.
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In a major boost for college sports in the heart of the city, Georgia State University has officially begun construction on its new baseball stadium, bringing the Panthers baseball program back to downtown Atlanta and adding another key venue to the city’s rich sports landscape.
The $15.4 million project is rising on the historic grounds of the former Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium — the legendary ballpark that once hosted the Atlanta Braves (1966-1996), the Atlanta Falcons, the Atlanta Chiefs, the Peach Bowl, and even Olympic baseball during the 1996 Summer Games.
Georgia State Breaks Ground on New Baseball Stadium
Most famously, it’s where Hank Aaron smashed his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974.
Currently a parking lot adjacent to Center Parc Credit Union Stadium (home of GSU football), the site sits just steps from the university’s downtown campus, the new GSU Convocation Center (home to men’s and women’s basketball), and the surrounding Summerhill neighborhood.
When completed, the new facility will create a true “athletics village” in the area, enhancing fan access and community engagement right in the center of Atlanta’s sports scene.
The stadium will feature approximately 1,000 seats, a modern turf playing surface, expanded dugouts, upgraded batting cages and bullpens, advanced technology infrastructure, and improved seating and hospitality areas.
AI rendering of new GSU baseball stadium.
To honor the site’s storied past, GSU is relocating the iconic Hank Aaron statue from the entrance of Center Parc Credit Union Stadium to the new baseball stadium’s main entrance.Plans also include a commemorative marker in left field recognizing the exact spot where Aaron’s historic homer cleared the wall.
“This stadium represents more than just a place to play baseball,” said Georgia State President Dr. M. Brian Blake. “It connects Georgia State to Atlanta’s sports legacy and creates a vibrant future for our program and community.”
The project received its final green light when the City of Atlanta approved the Land Disturbance Permit on November 18, 2025.
Construction crews have already mobilized equipment to the site, with completion targeted for fall 2026 — in time for the Panthers to potentially open the 2027 season in their new home.
The move brings baseball much closer to campus, replacing the current GSU Baseball Complex in Decatur (about 12 miles away), which has served as the Panthers’ home since 1986.
This new venue joins Atlanta’s impressive lineup of sports facilities, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium (home of the NFL’s Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United), Truist Park (home of the MLB’s Braves), State Farm Arena (home of the NBA’s Hawks), and the nearby Center Parc Credit Union Stadium and GSU Convocation Center.
It’s a welcome addition for local fans, student-athletes, and the Summerhill community, further solidifying downtown Atlanta as a hub for both professional and collegiate sports.
Donations continue to support the project, with naming opportunities still available for the stadium and playing field (pending approval from the University System of Georgia Board of Regents).
Final Word
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more developments as this exciting new chapter in Atlanta sports history takes shape!
For more information, visit georgiastatesports.com. Go Panthers!
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ATLANTA — As the Atlanta Falcons limp toward the end of another disappointing season, owner Arthur Blank is taking decisive action.
With the team sitting at 6-9 and officially eliminated from playoff contention for the eighth straight year, Blank has enlisted the services of consulting firm Sportology to conduct a thorough “health check” on the organization’s football operations.
Falcons To Bring in Consultant To Gauge Football Operations
Sportology, founded by former Chelsea FC executive Mike Forde and featuring former Houston Texans general manager Rick Smith as a key partner, has previously worked with Blank’s group on projects including Atlanta United and the new NWSL expansion team.
Now, the firm is turning its attention to the Falcons amid mounting questions about the team’s direction.
The review, first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, comes at a critical juncture. The Falcons face uncertainty at quarterback beyond veteran Kirk Cousins, whose future remains unclear despite solid recent performances filling in for the injured Michael Penix Jr. Key decisions loom for star players like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, all navigating contract situations.
Compounding the challenges are salary cap constraints and the absence of a 2026 first-round draft pick, traded away in previous deals.
Head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot are squarely in the spotlight. Reports indicate Blank will evaluate the entire football operation at season’s end, with buzz around the league suggesting potential changes could be on the horizon.
While Blank has historically shown patience, the prolonged playoff drought — the longest in franchise history — has amplified calls for accountability.
Fans have expressed a mix of frustration and dark humor online, with social media threads highlighting the irony of yet another offseason overhaul looming. One common sentiment: “Same old Falcons,” punctuated by memes of endless rebuild cycles.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Earns Rave Reviews
On a brighter note, Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues to shine as one of the NFL’s premier venues.
The iconic halo board, retractable roof, and fan-friendly concessions — including top-rated food options and affordable pricing — consistently earn rave reviews from visitors and locals alike. Even in tough seasons, the stadium remains a point of pride for Atlanta sports enthusiasts, as well as foodies who love cheap food.
Final Word
As the Falcons close out the 2025 campaign with games against the Rams and beyond, all eyes will be on Blank’s next moves.
Will this external review spark the changes needed to end the postseason drought?
Falcons Nation can only hope 2026 brings more than just another evaluation. Rise up — or reset? Time will tell.
