Falcons announce HC Quinn, GM Dimitroff will return in 2020
Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank announced Friday that head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff will be retained for the 2020 season.
"Over the last two seasons our results on the field have not met our standard or the expectations of our fans," Blank said in a statement. "I understand our fans' disappointment and frustration because I've felt every bit of it as well. That said, our focus must be on giving our franchise the best opportunity to win next year and beyond. I have long believed that continuity in leadership is very important across all our businesses and the football team is no different in that regard.
"After weighing several factors, including our team's statistical turnaround and our players' focus and effort the second half of the season, I feel the decision to retain Thomas and Dan, with (CEO) Rich (McKay) providing close day-to-day oversight of the football operation, will provide the timeliest route for the Atlanta Falcons to return to contention in 2020 and beyond."
Quinn was thought to be on the hot seat as the Falcons struggled out of the gate, posting a 1-7 record prior to their Week 9 bye. Since then, Atlanta has won five of seven, including three straight.
The defensive-minded coach brought immediate success after he was hired in 2015, as Atlanta earned a Super Bowl berth during the 2016 campaign. Quinn's last two years, however, have been less fruitful. The 49-year-old has accumulated a 13-18 record since the end of the 2017 season.
Dimitroff, meanwhile, was brought on board in 2008 and has arguably led the Falcons to their most consistent level of success in franchise history. Atlanta has accrued three division titles and six playoff appearances during his tenure.
Blank also named Raheem Morris the team's defensive coordinator for the 2020 season. Morris was promoted to lead the defense midway through the year and helped a struggling unit improve significantly.
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