The first year of the Raheem Morris era proved to be an exciting ride for Atlanta Falcons fans, but it ultimately ended with another losing season. In fact, it was the seventh consecutive year the team missed the playoffs. As Morris enters his second season, he should benefit from more clarity at quarterback, and some added defensive firepower.

Despite starting 6-3, the Falcons fell apart over the second half of their 2024 campaign, finishing with a record of 8-9. While it may not have been the ending fans had hoped for, the team did produce its highest win total since 2017.

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Morris needs to prove himself this season, though. Pro Football Sports Network ranked the 32 NFL head coaches and left Morris outside of the top 20.

Raheem Morris ranked 22nd-best head coach in NFL

“While one season with the current roster may not be enough to judge Morris on, his first didn’t do anything to erase doubts, especially after some game-management blunders last season,” wrote PFSN’s Brandon Austin. “What Morris does have going for him, though, is the respect that he commands from his players. He brings a steady, likeable presence to the locker room, but that’s just part of the equation when it comes to being a head coach.”

Morris has remained upbeat in his return to Atlanta, which is something his players seem to appreciate. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. reflected as much during his rookie year.

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“He’s a high-energy guy and he’s consistent with it,” Penix said of Morris. “That’s the biggest thing you want out of a coach: consistency. Not just being up and down based on how things are going. He always stays in the moment and he keeps the team ready for the big moments. He’s a great coach.”

The Falcons definitely feel pressure to win this year, and that goes from the front office down. The team traded a future first-round pick to add Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. in the 2025 NFL draft. Pearce, along with fellow first-round pick Jalon Walker, will attempt to elevate what has been a mediocre pass rush.

Atlanta opens the 2025 NFL season at home against the NFC South-rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 7.

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons Raheem Morris ranked No. 22 head coach in NFL