This should come as no surprise after what’s transpired over the last several weeks. Bill Belichick has long been believed to be the frontrunner for the Falcons job. I tweeted as much over a week ago.
I also have a source that confirms the Bill Belichick to the Falcons rumors are legit. He should be viewed as the front runner right now
— SportsTalkATL.com (@SportsTalkATL) January 11, 2024
Since then, Belichick has completed two interviews with the Falcons, one being a 1-on-1 with Arthur Blank and the other including Rich McKay and Terry Fontenot. According to several reputable sources, he is the Falcons top target, some even saying they would be surprised if he wasn’t named the next head coach in Atlanta.
As we’ve talked about throughout this hiring process, the decision for the Falcons to target Belichick appears to be a desperate one from Arthur Blank. There’s no questioning the resume; he’s the greatest coach of all-time. However, it’s also impossible to ignore the last three years in New England. He hasn’t had success since Tom Brady left and completely botched the development of Mac Jones. As of now, the Falcons don’t have a quarterback, and Belichick doesn’t seem like the right guy to figure out the situation long-term.
But that’s just the thing. Arthur Blank doesn’t seem concerned with the long-term health of the franchise anymore. He’s 81-years-old and desperate to win a Super Bowl, which is why he’s “all-in” on Bill Belichick, according to CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones.Â
“But a source familiar with Belichick told CBS Sports Blank “desperately” wants Belichick and that it’s ultimately Belichick’s job if he wants it,” Jones writes.Â
However, Jones isn’t completely sure the feeling is mutual, saying the same source said it’s “50/50 right now he takes the job.”
There seems to be a chance Belichick gets cold feet and leaves the Falcons at the alter, but it would come as a bit of a shock given what has transpired to this point. Belichick has yet to interview for any other opening. That could change, but it’s clear there’s interest on his end in coming to the Falcons.
A desperate Arthur Blank can also be very convincing. He can offer Belichick whatever contract he likes and give him full control over personnel decisions, something he had in New England for two decades. I’m not sure there’s another organization that would be willing to do the same.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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