Falcons set to name new HC?

[stomperrob]

...and the Jags will be in the market for a new DC

Falcons look sold on Jags coordinator Smith as head coach
Jan. 23, 2008
CBSSports.com wire reports

ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Falcons have zeroed in on Jacksonville defensive coordinator Mike Smith as the team's next coach, a person familiar with the search said Wednesday.

The person, who requested anonymity because contract talks between the Falcons and Smith have not been completed, said a news conference could be set for Thursday.

Smith, the Jaguars' defensive coordinator since 2003, had his second interview with the team Friday. He has never been an NFL head coach.

Smith first interviewed with Falcons owner Arthur Blank during the playoffs, after the team hired Thomas Dimitroff as general manager.

Smith, also a former defensive assistant with Baltimore, had the league's No. 12 defense with Jacksonville this season after ranking second in 2006 and sixth in 2005.

ESPN.com, citing league sources, first reported the Falcons were expected to hire Smith.

[WaCougMBS]

Has he been officially hired yet? I have heard conflicting reports online and on the radio...

[Amazinz]

Not official yet but I hope so soon. Better them then the Giants, from my perspective.

[WaCougMBS]

Not official yet but I hope so soon. Better them then the Giants, from my perspective.

Yeah, no kidding! I'm glad he (or anyone else in the mix) won't be involved in any Seahawk talks for at least another year

[stomperrob]

Thursday, January 24, 2008
Roundup
Falcons find their coach
Smith, the defensive coordinator with the Jaguars, is set to be announced today.
Detroit News wire services

ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Falcons hired Jacksonville defensive coordinator Mike Smith as their new head coach Wednesday night.

"Mike possesses all of the key qualities we were looking for in a head coach," said general manager Thomas Dimitroff, in his first month on the job.

Dimitroff said Smith, 48 and a 26-year NFL coaching veteran, "has strong experience with winning teams, a track record of success, a solid, smart approach to the game, and high character and integrity."

Smith, the Jaguars' defensive coordinator since 2003, has never been an NFL head coach.

Smith will be Atlanta's sixth coach since December 2003.