The Atlanta Falcons offered Titans offensive coordinator Arthur Smith the chance to become the team’s next coach, according to ESPN’s Dianna Russini. Smith has spent the past 10 seasons in Tennessee, moving from offensive and defensive quality control technician to his current role.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media adds that a trip to meet the Lions now has been canceled. The Eagles were also interested in the 38-year-old’s services.
The North Carolina native is the son of FedEx founder Frederick W. Smith. Teams looking for a CEO-type leader would have found a natural fit in the Titans’ interlocutor. He is probably moving to Atlanta to work for Home Depot founder Arthur Blank.
Tennessee’s season ended in the Super Wild-Card Round against the Ravens, so Smith was free to explore other opportunities.
Atlanta made the decision to stop being coach Dan Quinn in October, after the team’s first 0-5 start since 1997. Raheem Morris accepted the interim role and led the team to a 4-12 final. They are also in the midst of a search for the general manager.
The NFL saw a series of moves this week, with the Jets appointing 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to be their next coach and the Jaguars hiring Urban Meyer to be their next coach. Eagles, Chargers, Texans and Lions still have vacancies as head coach.
Stay tuned to CBS Sports to learn more about this developing story.