Smith Follows Stoic, Shimmering, Spectacular

On Wednesday, the Atlanta Falcons hired Jacksonville Jaguars Defensive Coordinator Mike Smith. Given Atlanta’s history, Smith pledged communication. “I know it was a very difficult year with the off-the-field issues,” Smith said. “Those are things that have happened in the past. I'm concerned about what's happening from today on, but in terms of mending the situations that occurred, I'm very open and I'm very personable. I like to have relationships with the players whether it's an open-door policy where we can get in and talk.”

According to General Manager Thomas Dimitroff, character sold Smith. “He is very communicative,” Dimitroff said. “He has a very well-defined plan to put in place, and he will adhere to that plan. For us, we believe Mike will be a very stabilizing and consistent element in this organization, and he'll set the tone across the board. We are very excited about that. It's something we feel the Falcons are in need of at this point.”

Since 1997, the Falcons have hired veteran (Dan Reeves). They have hired potential (Jim Mora Jr.). They have hired glitzy (Bobby Petrino). Each faltered. Smith is unspectacular. He is an ordinary assistant. Yet, he may succeed. He may trump his predecessors. Combined, they were 81-95.