Falcons' Raheem Morris Delivers Brutally Honest QB Evaluation
Raheem Morris is at the NFL Combine just weeks after being named head coach for the Atlanta Falcons.
Among the items of intrigue in Indianapolis is the quarterback position, both among the rookies and veterans potentially looking for a new home.
When asked about Atlanta's current state of affairs at the quarterback position, Morris gave a very blunt answer.
Feb 5, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Raheem Morris address the media after being introduced as the new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
"If we had better quarterback play, I may not be standing here," Morris said in his press conference.
That's not usually the type of honesty you get from a head coach, but he certainly isn't wrong. If Desmond Ridder had worked out last season and the Falcons made the playoffs, perhaps Arthur Smith would still be at the helm.
For some of the top rookies, the Falcons will be able to meet them, but a workout won't be happening. Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels are solidified as top picks and throwing at the Combine simply isn't necessary for them. But for the second tier of quarterbacks like Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, Oregon's Bo Nix and Washington's Michael Penix Jr., they will throw and the Falcons can build on their evaluations.
The Falcons will also have an opportunity to meet with other teams to gauge the trade value of guys like Justin Fields of the Chicago Bears.
Ultimately, the Falcons need to find a better solution at quarterback, and Morris will be one of the leading voices in the room to lead the charge.
