The Monday following the final week of the NFL regular season is widely known as “Black Monday.” This is traditionally the time when high-profile coaches learn their fate, and owners and GMs across the league formally choose whether to change direction or stay the course.
We've already taken a look at the coaches who were fired on this year's Black Monday, but here's a complete look at the coaches we found out won't be back in 2024.
Arthur Smith fired as Atlanta Falcons head coach
The Falcons have waived Arthur Smith, according to officials.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 8, 2024
Smith didn't know his fate until less than five minutes into Monday. The Falcons coach was considered safe unless a “big collapse” occurred, ending the season with back-to-back losses to the Bears and Saints, respectively.
His tenure in Atlanta was disappointing, with Smith going 21-30 in three seasons and struggling to develop a vision for the team during his tenure. The Falcons' passing game failed to develop despite investing back-to-back first-round picks in Kyle Pitts and Drake Rondon. Even running back Bijan Robinson, at his best, couldn't turn this offense around.
After all, Smith's fate is inexorably tied to his attempt to make Desmond Ridder the NFL's starting quarterback. His biggest flaw lies in his inability to find the same offensive success he had at Tennessee as offensive coordinator.
— James Deiter
