Falcons Firing Arthur Smith Would Be 'Surprise,' GM Terry Fontenot on 'Stable Ground'

The latest update on Atlanta Falcons coach Arthur Smith and general manager Terry Fontenot's job security comes from NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

The Atlanta Falcons (7-8) are expected to bring back coach Arthur Smith and general manager Terry Fontenot for 2024.

NFL Network reported Saturday "it would be a surprise" if the Falcons fired Smith, whose job has grown into question as Atlanta's playoff hopes have dwindled in recent weeks.

Similarly, Fontenot appears safe entering the season's final two weeks.

"Fontenot, who has spearheaded the massive roster and cap overhaul, appears to be on stable ground as of now," NFL Network wrote.

The Falcons are 21-28 in three seasons under Smith and Fontenot, going 7-10 in their first two years and staring down the possibility of a three-peat this campaign.

Atlanta spent $190 million this free agency with hopes of snapping a six-year playoff drought and controlled its own destiny in early December.

But back-to-back losses inside of the final minute to a pair of NFC South rivals, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and then-one-win Carolina Panthers, have the Falcons needing to win out and receive help from others to reach the postseason.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith reacts along the sidelines against the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium / John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Still, Falcons owner Arthur Blank, who's historically been patient with his decision makers, was aware when he hired Smith and Fontenot that success may not come immediately due to the financial limitations left by the prior regime.

"Smith signed a six-year deal when he was hired, and Blank knew a rebuild for a team in salary cap hell would take some time," NFL Network wrote. "The first two years were essentially clearing the decks and rebuilding, with this year being a far more competitive product on the field."

There appears to be more pressure on Smith than Fontenot, with the two seemingly not a package deal.

And while Smith is trending towards a return, there remains an important "if" as the Falcons prepare for road games against the Chicago Bears (6-9) and New Orleans Saints (7-8).

"If Atlanta finishes with solid performances in its final two games, Smith should be in good standing heading into Year 4," NFL Network writes. "If it's a freefall, the Falcons' 81-year-old owner may have a different view."

Should they return, the top priority for Smith and Fontenot is addressing quarterback, where Desmond Ridder was benched twice in favor of veteran backup Taylor Heinicke, who's not perceived to be a viable long-term solution.

Atlanta's recently been connected to Denver Broncos signal caller Russell Wilson should it peruse the experienced portion of the market but also currently holds the No. 10 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, giving the organization options.

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"Addressing the QB spot will be paramount in 2024," NFL Network writes, "because a lot of other pieces are in place: a talented skill group featuring several first-round picks, a solid offensive line and a defense that ranks top 10 for the first time in years despite the lack of a premier pass rusher."

But for now, anything that happens in the spring is a distant thought - because Smith and Fontenot, while currently in good shape, still have work to do to cement their return.

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