Falcons, Arthur Smith agree to head coaching deal

The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a head coaching deal with Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, the team announced Friday.

The Falcons interviewed Smith twice and had appeared to zero in on him as their top candidate. Smith reportedly called off his scheduled visit with the Detroit Lions once it became clear he was going to land in Atlanta.

Smith served as the Titans' offensive coordinator for the past two seasons and drew much praise for his work. Tennessee has ranked in the top 10 in scoring in each of Smith's two years, with the offense finishing second in yardage per game in 2020.

The 38-year-old was able to get the most out of his players since taking over the Titans' offense. Ryan Tannehill enjoyed a career resurgence after arriving in Tennessee last season. Running back Derrick Henry is coming off the eighth 2,000-yard rushing campaign in NFL history, and wide receiver A.J. Brown eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in 2020 while Corey Davis was not far behind with 984 yards.

The offensive wiz began his tenure as the Titans defensive quality control coach in 2011 before transitioning to the other side of the ball the following year. Smith helped coach the offensive line and tight ends before being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2019.

Smith will replace Dan Quinn, who was fired earlier this campaign after an 0-5 start, and Raheem Morris, who filled in for Quinn on an interim basis.