Falcons hire Mora

[CatnipOligarchy]

The Atlanta Falcons have filled their head coaching vacancy with former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Jim Mora Jr. Many people thought the falcons would pursue Nick Saban, but this was not the case. Mora was signed to a 5-year $7.5m deal. This is a good hire for Atlanta. Defense was a major weakness last year and a defensive minded coach is the right way to go with this team. With Michael Vick at QB, the offense wont require as much attention. I cant wait for next season :)

[ChicoCahill]

i didn't think he was that great at SF

[....]

Nice pick by the Falcons.

[Callaway]

hopefully his post season runs will be more memorable than his dad's.

[CatnipOligarchy]

i just hope his press conferences are as entertaining as his dads.. "Playoffs?!?!"

[Callaway]

i just hope his press conferences are as entertaining as his dads.. "Playoffs?!?!"

yea his bashing of manning was a classic.

[mattmatik]

Being a long-time 49er fan, I'm kind of sad to see Junior go. The past 2 years have really been a complete turnaround from what the defense was 4-5 years ago. Of course, I must say that I think the turnaround by Junior owes more to guys like Julian Peterson, Andre Carter, Ahmed Plummer, Bryant Young, Tony Parrish than to anything he specifically changed. One thing that is really obvious to everyone who watches the NFL is that the 49ers pass defense SUCKS. This never changed; their run defense has been in the top 5 or so for a few years, but they never could stop the pass.

What's interesting about that is that the Falcons pass defense SUCKS as well. I think guys like Junior are career assistants, meaning they specialize in one specific aspect of the game. I cannot see him coaching all sides of the ball. Of course, he will have Mike Vick at QB, a decent back in TJ Duckett, hopefully a better player in Peerless Price (what the hell happened to him last year?), and maybe, just maybe, a big free agent (Terrell Owens????).

Now I'm left to wonder who the 49ers will get as a defensive coordinator. I really wish they would look to the college level, specifically Charlie Strong of Florida or maybe John Chaivous of Tennessee. And also, I wonder if this will affect the re-signings of Julian Peterson, Jason Webster, and some other key defensive players for the 49ers.