The Atlanta Falcons already made one major change this offseason, firing head coach Arthur Smith after three seasons on the job. He has since been replaced by Raheem Morris, formerly the defensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams.
Expect things to look different on the field under Morris, who has a defensive background, compared to Smith, whose expertise was on offense. Philosophies will be different and how the roster should be built will change as well.
Looking to get things more in line with his vision, the Falcons have begun making some changes to their roster. The first move that occurred this week was the release of veteran tight end, Jonnu Smith.
NFL News & Rumors: Jonnu Smith, 2024 NFL Free Agency, Atlanta Falcons Updates
Smith was a favorite of his former head coach, as the two spent time together on the Tennessee Titans. He was acquired by the Falcons from the New England Patriots last year in exchange for a seventh-round pick to reunite them together.
Maddeningly, he was involved in the offense it felt more than Kyle Pitts, who was selected No. 4 in the 2021 NFL Draft. In his one season in Atlanta, Smith caught 50 passes for 582 yards and three touchdowns.
The receptions and yardage were both career highs, as he picked up right where he left off in Tennessee. With Smith being released, the Falcons have Pitts, John Fitzpatrick and Tucker Fisk under contract at the position.
“@AtlantaFalcons Thankful to have had the opportunity to be apart of an amazing organization. This season will be one of the most memorable years during my career for many great reasons on and off the field. Special locker room and special people all throughout the building,” Smith wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
NFL News & Rumors: Jonnu Smith, 2024 NFL Free Agency, Atlanta Falcons Updates
The decision to move on from Smith was likely driven by money. The Falcons will save $6.5 million against the cap by releasing him with only $2.5 million in dead cap remaining. That is a lot of money to be paying a potential backup tight end.
Could we end up seeing Jonnu reunite with Arthur again this offseason? Arthur accepted the offensive coordinator job with the Pittsburgh Steelers and it would not be a surprise to see him bring some of his older players along with him to the Steel City.
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