Los Angeles Rams Head Coach Sean McVay, known as a coaching prodigy since turning around the Rams’ offense in his first season as head coach in 2017, continues to influence coaching hires across the NFL. Recently, the Atlanta Falcons named McVay’s former defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, as their head coach. Despite McVay’s offensive expertise, Morris, with experience on both sides of the ball, is seen as a beneficiary of the McVay coaching tree.
Morris joined the Rams as defensive coordinator after an unexpected and successful stint as the Falcons’ interim head coach in 2020. Despite initial low expectations, Morris transformed the Rams’ defense into a formidable unit, contributing to the team’s surprise playoff appearance. Notably, Morris previously served on the offensive side in Atlanta, holding roles such as assistant head coach and wide receivers coach from 2015 to 2019.
The article emphasizes that five of McVay’s Rams assistants have ascended to head coaching roles in just seven years, while another five have become coordinators. This remarkable success rate underscores the high regard McVay commands in the league. Notable success stories from the McVay coaching tree include Matt LaFleur, Zach Taylor, and Kevin O’Connell, while Brandon Staley struggled as the Chargers’ head coach. Morris’ appointment as the Falcons’ head coach adds another layer to the ongoing legacy of the McVay coaching tree.
Morris, at 47, becomes the first non-interim Black head coach in Falcons history, joining General Manager Terry Fontenot, also Black, in leading a franchise striving for success after several subpar seasons. Morris, who previously coached the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is returning for his second stint as the Falcons’ head coach. His hiring comes as a surprise, given the team’s initial interest in notable coaches like Bill Belichick and interviews with other rising coaching talents.
The article also touches on Morris’ coaching history, his previous head coaching stint with the Buccaneers, and his impact on the Rams’ defense. Despite the surprise element in Morris’ hiring, it remains to be seen how the Falcons’ fan base will react to a familiar face returning to the helm.
Under Morris’ guidance, the Rams’ defense ranked 20th in yards allowed and 18th in scoring defense during the past season. Rams General Manager Les Snead and players praised Morris for his positive impact on the team, highlighting his unique experience coaching both offense and defense. Snead expressed confidence in Morris’ ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively, providing the Falcons with a competitive edge.
The article concludes by mentioning potential tampering charges as players express interest in joining Morris, highlighting the widespread respect he commands within the league. Morris’ appointment as the Falcons’ head coach adds another chapter to the success story of the McVay coaching tree, showcasing its continued influence on coaching hires in the NFL.
Leave a Reply