Way-too-early 2021 NFL Power Rankings: Rams, Packers, Chiefs chasing Buccaneers

Dan Quinn had instant success as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, winning eight games in his first season before going 11-5 in his second. That same campaign led him and his team to the Super Bowl, where they unfortunately had one of the more monumental let-downs in the history of the game.

Atlanta blew a 28-3 lead and lost to the New England Patriots and never really looked the same after that. They did go 10-6 the following season and won a playoff game, but their offense wasn’t as efficient after losing Kyle Shanahan following their run to the big game.

Quinn was 7-9 in both 2018 and 2019 before starting this past season off with an 0-5 mark which led to his dismissal. Now, the Falcons have turned the page as they brought in former Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.

Smith might not have any experience as a head coach, but he steps into a good situation with the Dirty Birds. Atlanta might have some holes to fill on defense, but they have plenty of talent on offense — and with reports that they will keep Matt Ryan, they could be good on that side of the ball quickly.

While all that is true, it’s hard to put them too high on this list just yet. There’s clearly something wrong here with this team and we have to see how Smith does as the head coach before putting too much faith in him.