This afternoon, the Falcons introduced their new head coach and general manager at two separate press conferences. Given that they both just took the jobs, the press conferences did not have much content in terms of personnel or coaching decisions. They just aren’t that far in the process to know exactly what they plan to do at the free agency, the draft, etc. However, the two still provided many small nuggets that Falcon fans should find intriguing, and I have a feeling they’ll like what they have to say more.
First the head coach, Arthur Blank started the press conference for Arthur Smith, saying that he was his first choice since the beginning of the process. The former offensive coordinator of the Titans received rave reviews from everyone Blank spoke to, including Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs, who worked with Smith from 2007-2008 when he was defensive quality control coach. Blank also said that Smith and Fontenot favored each other during the interview process, saying that Fontenot had already done his research and started looking for potential coaches.
This says a lot about Fontenot and, from the way he conducted the press conference, it is exactly what I expected. William McFadden put it perfectly in this tweet about Fontenot’s first performance as acting general manager.
Terry Fontenot is launching a perfect game at his first press conference as the GM of the Falcons. The guy looks like a superstar hired on the first day. (Obviously, your actual work is much more important than a press conference.)
– William McFadden (@willmcfadden) January 19, 2021
Fontenot was so good today, and Falcons fans must be thrilled to have him as their next general manager. Since its opening, when he paid tribute to the late Vaughn Mcclure, his preparation and lively personality; he could not have made a more perfect impression on his first appearance as a falcon.
Fontenot’s most substantial statement was about the outline and its approach. He says he is strictly the best player available, mentioning the approach of the great Ozzie Newsome – the former general manager of Ravens. This is especially puzzling, considering that Falcons currently have the fourth overall choice and may be looking to grab one of the fantastic potential quarterback players available. However, if he is looking for the best player available, Penei Sewell or even Devonta Smith / Ja’Marr Chase may be on the cards.
Back in Smith, he spoke exactly how you would expect a head coach to sound, preaching physicality, toughness and responsibility. I am not going to put much weight on those words because I heard all of this from Dan Quinn, but his relationship with Fontenot is already promising. The two are very excited to work with each other.
Terry Fontenot: “I couldn’t be more excited to work with Arthur Smith.”
– William McFadden (@willmcfadden) January 19, 2021
Like Fontenot, Smith was not willing to comment on any personal or coaching decisions – no matter how hard the media pressed – but he confirmed that he will report the crime, which is something we expected. Fontenot also said he believed it was important for the team to have a “unique voice” during the season – the head coach.
Finally, Blank confirmed that Smith and Fontenot will report to Rich McKay. However, they both said that they consider McKay someone they can trust based on their experience, which echoed what they were saying during the press conference – the Falcons are a world-class organization from top to bottom – which is why that Blank managed to hire both first choices.