EDITOR'S NOTE: The Falcons will formally introduce Head Coach Mike Smith at a press conference on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2008, at 3 p.m., at the team’s headquarters in Flowery Branch. The press conference will be streamed LIVE on AtlantaFalcons.com.
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – The Atlanta Falcons today announced that Mike Smith has been named the team’s new Head Coach.
Smith, a 26-year coaching veteran, becomes the 14th head coach in Atlanta Falcons history and takes over the Falcons after serving as the successful Defensive Coordinator of the Jacksonville Jaguars for the past five seasons (2003-2007).
Heading into the 2007 NFL season, Jacksonville ranked fourth in overall defense (296.6) and third in offensive points allowed (16.1) from 2003-2006. Smith’s 2007 defensive unit finished with the AFC’s fifth-best rushing defense, holding opponents to an average of 100.3 yards per game.
“Mike possesses all of the key qualities we were looking for in a head coach,” Falcons General Manager Thomas Dimitroff said. “Among them, he has strong experience with winning teams; a track record of success; a solid, smart approach to the game; and high character and integrity. I’m sure our players and staff will quickly gain loyalty and respect for Mike, and I’m personally looking forward to working with him.”
During his time in the NFL, Smith, 48, has demonstrated strong capabilities in developing and setting high expectations for his players.
“He is very competitive,” said Jaguars Defensive End Paul Spicer. “He wants the best out of you – he demands the best of you. Mike Smith gained the trust of a lot of Jaguars players over the years. He has definitely gained my trust. I would tell any Falcons player that they are definitely getting a gem."
In his five seasons with Jacksonville, three of Smith’s players garnered six Pro Bowl selections, including defensive tackle Marcus Stroud (2003-2005), defensive tackle John Henderson (2004, 2006) and cornerback Rashean Mathis (2006).
“I’m thrilled and excited to be the new Head Coach of the Atlanta Falcons,” Smith said. “My goal is to build a well-disciplined, hard-nosed football team that will be able to run the football on offense and stop the run on defense. I’ve always believed that’s what makes championship teams.”
Smith contributed to three winning seasons in Jacksonville (2004, 2005, and 2007), including a 12-4 season in 2005 and an 11-5 record in 2007 as the Jaguars reached the playoffs for the sixth time in franchise history last year, finishing 12th overall in total defense. With Smith’s assistance, the Jaguars have posted the sixth-most wins (40) in the NFL over the past four seasons.
“I’ve been fortunate to coach a lot of good players throughout my career, and I’m looking forward to working with our players in Atlanta,” Smith said.
Prior to joining Jacksonville, Smith spent four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens from 1999-2002 and helped the team to their first Super Bowl championship (XXXV) in 2000. The Ravens captured their Super Bowl title on the strength of an outstanding defense that set an NFL regular season record by allowing only 165 points. In 2002 as Linebackers Coach of the Ravens, Smith tutored All-Pro LB Ray Lewis and Pro Bowl LB Peter Boulware.
“First of all, I am very happy for Smitty,” Jacksonville Pro Bowl DT Marcus Stroud said. “He is definitely a deserving coach, and will be a very good addition to the team. He’s ready for this opportunity. He’s been a good coach for a long time. He will bring stability and a tough-minded approach. He’s a leader and will do a great job in Atlanta.”
Smith began his coaching career in the collegiate ranks serving as a part-time Assistant Coach for San Diego State (1982-1985). He then moved on to Morehead State in 1986 and coached the defensive line while also handling recruiting duties. Smith’s last stop before joining the NFL was at Tennessee Tech where he spent 12 seasons (1987-1998). He served in a variety of roles during his tenure including: Defensive Coordinator, Defensive Line Coach and Special Teams Coach.
Smith played college football at East Tennessee State University (1977-81) where he was named defensive MVP twice from his linebacker position. He led his team in tackles as a senior with 186 stops.
He and his wife, Julie, have a daughter, Logan (5/13/00).
MORE ON HEAD COACH MIKE SMITH:
- NEWS: Falcons, Smith look toward future
- RELEASE: Falcons name Smith new head coach
- PHOTOS: Mike Smith photo gallery
- NOTEBOOK: Getting to Know Mike Smith
- QUOTABLE: What They're Saying about Mike Smith
- AUDIO: Linebacker Michael Boley on the hiring of Mike Smith
- NEWS: Smith names Thomas assistant head coach
- VIDEO: Smith Answers Fans Questions
- VIDEO: Mike Smith Introductory News Conference
- BOARDS: Talk about Smith on FalconsLIFE
