As the Falcons’ head coaching search pushes on, there has been a question asked repeatedly regarding the organizational structure of the franchise. That question involves what and how much power CEO Rich McKay has and how much his input to Arthur Blank carries regarding the next head coach as well as the overall direction of the team. For starters, McKay does not make roster decisions. Those will be made by GM Terry Fontenot and the new head coach. The Coach and GM report to McKay, who then reports to Arthur Blank. McKay joined Dukes & Bell earlier this month and explained as much.
According to WSB-TV’s Zach Klein, however, McKay’s close relationship with Blank could be a significant talking point for coaching hires. For example, if Bill Belichick wants to come to Atlanta with the idea of having full control, McKay would be someone Bill would have to work with at the managerial level. This relationship would not appear to affect Belichick as head coach.
Arthur Blank has relied on McKay and worked closely with him since 2002. They formed a partnership that has produced results, though the ultimate goal of a Super Bowl victory has not been achieved. If Blank feels Belichick is the answer to that missing puzzle piece, he can make the decision to allow Belichick to operate the way he wants to fully. But if he does not, the franchise can choose to go in a different direction entirely.