ATLANTA — The Atlanta Falcons have fired head coach Arthur Smith, the team announced in the early morning hours Monday.
In a move many expected, the team said in a statement that Smith was dismissed following a meeting Sunday night in Atlanta with Falcons Owner and Chairman Arthur Blank and CEO Rich McKay.
Smith was the head coach in Atlanta for three seasons, finishing 7-10 in each campaign. He finished with an overall record of 21-30.
The decision came right after the Falcons season-ending loss to the Saints, in which they were routed by their division rival in New Orleans by a final of 48-17.
“Decisions like this are never easy and they never feel good,” said Blank. “We have profound respect for Coach Smith and appreciate all the hard work and dedication he has put into the Falcons over the last three years. He has been part of building a good culture in our football team, but the results on the field have not met our expectations. After significant thought and reflection, we have determined the best way forward for our team is new leadership in the head coaching position.”
The Falcons said their search for their next head coach will begin immediately. The team said the search will be led by Blank and McCay with input from general manager Terry Fontenot. They said they have no timetable for a hire.
Blank and McKay will hold a press conference at 4 p.m. Monday to discuss the firing and how the Falcons will move forward.
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