The final stretch of the Falcons’ season will undoubtedly place Arthur Smith under intense scrutiny, especially after Arthur Blank’s ambiguous comments regarding Smith’s job status in 2024. The signs strongly suggest that Smith is coaching with his future hanging in the balance, and the team’s performance in these remaining three games will likely determine his fate within the organization.
While many Falcons fans anticipate Arthur Smith’s departure, critics argue that these may not necessarily be the conclusive games of his coaching career in Atlanta. NFL insider Albert Breer, for instance, expressed confidence in Smith’s coaching abilities on the Rich Eisen Show, acknowledging his intelligence and predicting future success, whether with the Falcons or elsewhere. Breer emphasized the team’s shortcomings in managing the quarterback position as a key challenge for Smith.
Despite evident flaws in Smith’s coaching tenure, there is recognition of a learning curve, and players remain steadfast in their support despite lackluster results. Smith’s adeptness in designing run game concepts is acknowledged, but the glaring mismanagement of the quarterback position has become a central issue.
The decision to invest only a third-round pick in such a crucial position is deemed a serious mistake, potentially warranting termination. The missteps extend beyond the choice of starting Desmond Ridder, reflecting a series of questionable decisions in handling the quarterback position. The team retained an aging Matt Ryan initially, pursued Deshaun Watson unsuccessfully, and settled for Marcus Mariota, who proved to be underwhelming. The failure to assess Ridder’s potential last season further compounded the quarterback dilemma.
The critique extends to the broader approach of the Falcons under Smith and Terry Fontenot, spanning three consecutive years of short-sighted and inept decision-making regarding the quarterback position. The sentiment is that this pattern is unlikely to change in the upcoming offseason without a shift in decision-makers.
While there is acknowledgment of Arthur Smith’s coaching potential, it is emphasized that his influence on quarterback-related decisions should be reconsidered. For Smith to continue in Atlanta, there is a call for someone else to take charge in selecting the next signal caller for the Falcons.
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