Dec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank announced significant changes within the organization following the conclusion of the team’s season on January 7, 2024. Blank dismissed head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, marking a pivotal moment as the Falcons look to reshape their leadership for the future.
During a press conference on Thursday, Blank expressed interest in former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who was let go by the Ravens the previous Tuesday. Blank stated, “He would certainly be a person we would be interested in talking to, assuming he has interest in talking to us,” according to Josh Kendall of The Athletic. While Harbaugh is linked with other teams, including the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins, he will not conduct interviews before next week.
In outlining the Falcons’ strategy, Blank emphasized the need for a structured approach in their hiring process. “We want to have [the president of football] in their seat and have them lead the interviews with the head coach and general manager going forward,” he explained. The Falcons are reportedly considering franchise legend Matt Ryan for the president of football role, but must first conduct in-person interviews with at least two external minority candidates to satisfy the Rooney Rule requirements.
Future of Quarterback Michael Penix Jr.
The future of the Falcons’ quarterback position remains uncertain as they navigate potential changes. Michael Penix Jr., a projected first-round draft pick in 2024, underwent surgery in November to repair a partially torn ACL. His recovery timeline raises questions about his availability for the start of the 2026 season.
Blank expressed confidence in Penix’s potential, stating that the medical team felt “1000 percent secure in the medical procedure they went through.” He added, “We look forward to having Michael back. He’s had good surgery. We’ve spoken with the medical staff. It seems to have gone well.” Penix is currently involved in a successful rehabilitation program, and the organization is optimistic about his return.
In a related move, the Falcons have restructured the final two years of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins‘ contract, originally signed in March 2024. The team plans to release Cousins with a post-June 1 designation before March 13 of this year, further opening the door for a potential new face at quarterback.
As the Falcons embark on this new chapter, Blank’s strategic approach to leadership and player management will be closely scrutinized, especially as they aim to build a competitive team for the upcoming seasons. The decisions made in the coming weeks will likely have a lasting impact on the franchise’s future.
