Falcons Fire Arthur Smith: 5 Coaching Candidates Who Can Replace, Including Bill Belichick

Who will be the next head coach of the Atlanta Falcons following the firing of Arthur Smith?

The Arthur Smith era in Atlanta has come to an end, so the work now begins on finding the new head coach of a Falcons team that has not reached the postseason since 2017.

As Black Monday wears on in the NFL, the coaching carousel continues to move, and the Falcons will have to get in on the action sooner rather than later. With that in mind, who are some candidates that could find themselves in Atlanta when the motion stops?

Here are five potential prospects for the Falcons' head coaching vacancy.

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Bill Belichick -- Head Coach, New England Patriots

Speculation has swirled regarding Belichick's future in New England, and reports have indicated that the Falcons are interested in pursuing Belichick to lead their franchise. 

Belichick has been in the NFL in some form since 1975, and he has helped pilot the Patriots to six Super Bowl titles during his tenure.

Raheem Morris -- Defensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Rams

Reports have indicated that the Washington Commanders have reached out to the Rams on Monday, interested in interviewing their defensive coordinator for the head coaching position vacated by Ron Rivera. Morris served as the interim head coach for the Falcons in 2020, and he has done solid work in L.A. since joining that staff in 2021.

Jim Harbaugh -- Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines

Could this Harbaugh make a return to the NFL? He has a national title game to contend with on Monday night, but if he is interested, it's possible that a position in Atlanta could await him.

Harbaugh was the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2011-14, leading them to the Super Bowl in the 2012 season.

Report: Falcons Interested in Hiring Patriots' Belichick

Bobby Slowik -- Offensive Coordinator, Houston Texans

If you want to revitalize a scuffling offense, perhaps Slowik could be the move for Atlanta. He has served as the Texans' OC this season, helping pilot rookie sensation quarterback C.J. Stroud to an AFC South title and playoff berth. He previously served on the staffs of the Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers.

Eric Bienemy -- Offensive Coordinator, Washington Commanders

Speaking of revitalizing offenses, there's the option of Eric Bienemy. He has worked alongside quarterback Patrick Mahomes in a previous stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he has been in college or professional coaching circles since 2001. He also served as Washington's assistant head coach for the 2023 season alongside his OC duties.