Falcons Rumors: Ben Johnson, More Requested for HC Interviews amid Belichick Buzz

The Atlanta Falcons are beginning to take the initial steps in the search to replace head coach Arthur Smith.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported the Falcons have requested to interview Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and Baltimore Ravens defensive line coach Anthony Weaver. According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, Atlanta has also requested to speak with Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks is in the mix as well.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero added Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan also received a request to be interviewed by Atlanta brass.

Another figure will likely loom over the team's offseason. The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported the Falcons "have been interested in landing Bill Belichick for weeks."

It's certainly quite a coincidence news of the Falcons' interview requests broke almost immediately after Belichick's reported departure from the New England Patriots.

On Monday, The Athletic's Mike Sando predicted Belichick would wind up in Atlanta and cited one NFL executive who called the team the "odds-on favorite" to get the surefire Hall of Famer.

The 71-year-old's résumé speaks for itself. He's an eight-time Super Bowl champion as a coordinator and head coach, and he has more wins than all but one head coach in NFL history.

Still, it's worth considering whether Belichick is the ideal fit for a franchise that has such a big question mark at quarterback.

Desmond Ridder struggled in his first full season as the starter, throwing for 2,836 yards, 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 15 appearances. If the plan is to keep developing the 2022 third-round pick, then hiring Belichick probably isn't the solution given how much Mac Jones regressed over time.

Sando cited Russell Wilson as a veteran alternative for a Belichick-led Falcons, which kind of sums up the dearth of realistic options through a trade or free agency. Maybe you win the NFC South with Wilson at the helm, but your hopes go well beyond that if you're hiring a coach this decorated.

Team owner Arthur Blank and general manager Terry Fontenot would be wise to approach their coaching interviews with an open mind. Maybe hiring Belichick is clearly the best option on the table, but another candidate could be better suited for the position long-term.