'Overjoyed!' Falcons New Coach Raheem Morris's First Public Statement

In the press release announcing his hiring, new Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris offered insight on his emotions while giving thanks to Falcons owner Arthur Blank and the Los Angeles Rams.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris has released his first public comments since being officially announced as Atlanta's 19th head coach Thursday night.

The 47-year-old Morris issued a statement in the Falcons' formal press release.

"I am overjoyed for the opportunity for my family and I to return to Atlanta as the Falcons head coach," Morris said. "We know from firsthand experience what a first-class organization Atlanta is and what this team means to its city and its fans."

Oct 16, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris watches from the sidelines in the second half against the Carolina Panthers at SoFi Stadium / Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Morris was with the Falcons from 2015-2020, starting as offensive pass game coordinator in 2015, leveling up to receivers coach from 2016-2019, taking over as defensive coordinator in 2020 and then becoming the interim head coach after an 0-5 start later that season.

Morris earned the locker room's support but wasn't retained after going 4-7, a record derailed by five consecutive losses to end the season.

Still, Falcons owner Arthur Blank gave Morris an interview then, and followed with two more during this cycle following the firing of head coach Arthur Smith on Jan. 7.

Blank and Morris met on Feb. 20 and Feb. 23, with the second interview - which came at Blank's house like many other interviews - evidently being enough to seal the deal.

Morris expressed his gratitude to Blank in the statement.

"I am incredibly appreciative of Arthur Blank for his leadership and for this entire organization for putting its trust in me to help lead this team."

Morris, the first non-interim African American head coach in Falcons history, also took a moment to send one final message to Los Angeles, where he won his first Super Bowl as the team's defensive coordinator in 2021.

"I can't thank the Rams organization enough for the experience and opportunity with the team," Morris said. "From the Kroenke family, Kevin Demoff, Les Snead, Sean McVay and the entire staff, the Rams are a first-class organization all around.

"We loved our time in L.A., loved the fans and know the Rams continue to have a very bright future."

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The Falcons have yet to release a date or time for Morris's introductory press conference.