Kirby Smart linked to Atlanta Falcons job hours after Raheem Morris firing, but sources say one thing is blocking the move

Kirby Smart is being strongly linked to the Atlanta Falcons head coaching job just hours after the franchise fired Raheem Morris on January 4, 2026. The Georgia Bulldogs head coach has become an instant talk of the town among fans and analysts as Atlanta looks to fill one of the NFL’s most intriguing vacancies. While Smart has never publicly expressed NFL ambitions, sources and media personalities are already pushing the idea of bringing him south to save the struggling franchise.

Why Kirby Smart Suddenly Became Target #1 for Falcons

When the Falcons announced Raheem Morris’ dismissal on Sunday evening, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart wasn’t even the immediate consensus choice. But within hours, fans and analysts on social media started connecting the dots. Atlanta radio host Chris Dimino from 680 The Fan had actually proposed the idea back in November, arguing Smart should be the Falcons’ priority.

Smart has established himself as one of college football’s elite coaches during his tenure in Athens. His remarkable 117-21 record in 10 seasons represents the most victories by any college coach in their opening decade. The Georgia program has won two national championships and made three title game appearances under his guidance.

Smart’s credibility extends beyond wins and losses—he’s been ranked the highest-paid coach in college football, earning just over $13 million annually at Georgia. That financial standing suggests he’s comfortable with his current position and unlikely to be swayed easily.

The Resources Falcons Could Deploy to Make It Happen

Arthur Blank’s desperation appears genuine. The Falcons haven’t made the playoffs since 2017 and haven’t posted a winning season in nearly a decade. The organization moved simultaneously to fire both head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot, signaling ownership is ready to blow up the entire structure.

To pry Smart from Georgia, Blank would need to offer competitive financial terms. NFL head coaches at the elite level command $18-20 million annually—significantly more than Smart currently makes in college. Andy Reid earns approximately $20 million per year with Kansas City, while Sean Payton collects around $18 million with New Orleans. A seven-figure increase could get Blank in the conversation.

Factor	Current Situation (Georgia)	Potential (Atlanta)
Annual Salary	$13+ million	$18-20 million
Program Status	National championship contender	Playoff rebuilding project
Young Talent	Established roster	Quality players in place
Location	Athens, Georgia	Atlanta, Georgia

What the Rumor Machine is Actually Revealing

Social media ignited with speculation almost immediately. Atlanta news host Ben Stanfield tweeted that “It’s also time for the Falcons to have a conversation with Kirby Smart.” Multiple fans began asking variations of the same question: “Kirby Smart to the Falcons?” Sports analyst Luke Easterling from Athlon Sports posted boldly: “Would not be shocked if Arthur Blank tries to throw a massive bag at Kirby Smart.”

The persistent mention of Smart’s name suggests something more than idle speculation. While no official sources have reported direct contact between the Falcons and Smart, the strength of fan and media interest indicates where Atlanta’s ownership might be looking. Smart is viewed as a proven winner who could stabilize an organization in free fall.

The Massive Obstacle Standing in the Way

Despite the enthusiasm, Smart has never shown genuine interest in leaving college football. He spent just one season as an NFL assistant coach after leaving Mark Richt’s Georgia staff early in his career, but that experience didn’t convince him to pursue a full-time professional role. His current position at Georgia represents the type of championship-caliber program that most coaches covet.

Smart’s loyalty to Georgia and his demonstrated success in the college game present a nearly insurmountable hurdle. He’s built something special in Athens over the past decade—a program that consistently contends for national titles. Walking away from that to take on the Falcons’ rebuilding challenge would require extraordinary circumstances.

Will the Falcons actually make the call to Kirby Smart?

The honest answer is probably not, but nobody can completely rule it out. Desperate times sometimes create unexpected opportunities in coaching searches. The Falcons clearly believe their organization needs a major reset. Whether that reset includes pursuing the most successful college coach of the past decade remains to be seen.

What’s certain is that Kirby Smart’s name will continue circulating throughout the hiring process. Even if Smart never answers the phone, his connection to the Atlanta job demonstrates how far some fans are willing to dream about turning around their favorite franchise. The Falcons will likely get an interview from Smart or simply move on to someone more obviously available—but either way, his emergence in the conversation shows just how hungry Atlanta’s fanbase is for legitimate change.

Sources

• ESPN – Falcons fire Morris and Fontenot, coaching vacancy analysis
• Yahoo Sports / Athlon Sports – Kirby Smart speculation and social media reaction
• Atlanta Falcons Official – Head Coach Tracker and vacancy information