Technically speaking, the Atlanta Falcons can still make the post-season. But that slim chance of success is only due to the laughable state of the NFC South. Even if the Falcons were able to sneak into the playoffs, a second consecutive season under .500 may be enough to justify moving on from head coach Mike Smith.
Rumors are swirling that Smith will be fired no matter what after the season ends.
"Falcons owner Arthur Blank has informed multiple parties that he plans on moving on from head coach Mike Smith at the end of the season, sources said, and it would take a shocking playoff run to alter that scenario," wrote Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports. "Blank has also told some confidants that, for now, he expects to retain general manager Thomas Dimitroff, though it could be revisited through the hiring process."
Current New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan is almost assuredly getting the ax as well. Several reports have suggested him as a potential replacement in Atlanta. However, it appears as if the Falcons are looking at a handful of other options.
"Among the candidates the Falcons are doing due diligence on includes Denver offensive coordinator Adam Gase and Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, with team president Rich McKay among those working through back channels gathering information on top candidates," La Canfora wrote. "Stanford coach David Shaw could be a consideration as well."
ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported Sunday morning that Shaw intends to remain at Stanford next season.
Still, it's clear that Atlanta has already begun the process of succession and has specific names in mind for the eventual change. While Mike Smith has done a quality job in Atlanta -- five straight winning seasons with four playoff appearances from 2008 to 2012 -- the team has just one playoff victory in that time and will finish with a losing record for the second straight season. It seems as if a shake up is necessary at this point.
