Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot were undoubtedly excited when the Falcons offered them the head coach and general manager jobs. I imagine it was a moment they envisioned in their minds countless times. But they both took on their respective positions knowing that big challenges lie ahead: cap inflexibility, the fan base’s emotional investment in certain veterans, and a roster with some glaring holes. And let’s not forget about the fact that this fan base has lived through some of the most embarrassing moments in professional sports history—we’re damaged goods.
It is now well-established that Matt Ryan isn’t going anywhere in 2021.