Report: Falcons hire search firm for possible coaching change
The NFC South title is on the line in Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers, but it appears the job status of Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith could be, too.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Falcons have already hired a search firm in case the team decides to make a change in leadership after the season.
Falcons have hired the search firm, Korn Ferry, to identify HC candidates in the event the team makes a HC change, via @mortreport and I.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 28, 2014
Of course, a win over the Panthers would land the Falcons a playoff berth and a home-field game next week, but the organization preparing for a coaching search ahead of time might suggest that Smith's job is in danger either way.
Smith tallied an impressive 56-24 record in his first five seasons with the Falcons, but a disappointing 4-12 campaign in 2013 saw the team take a significant step in the wrong direction.
While the offense has remained strong, Smith's background as a defensive coach has not had the expected impact. Heading into the season finale, the Falcons' defense is surrendering a league-worst 404.4 yards per game.