“I don’t need to be the smartest person in the building.”— That’s Raheem Morris, the mastermind behind the Falcons’ defense. But let’s be real—this NFL head coach might play it humble, but there’s one MVP who’s crucial to his game plan. While Morris is busy with playbooks and press conferences, a lady is managing the chaos off-field. 

She’s been the steady force behind every coaching gig, win, and family moment. With Morris tackling football’s toughest challenges, it’s clear that the true strength of his team is the one who’s been with him through every blitz and sack—his wife. 

Who is Nicole Morris?

Raheem Morris might be all about X’s and O’s on-field, but off the gridiron? His MVP is his wife, Nicole Marie Moulton. While Morris is scheming up plays and rallying Atlanta, Nicole’s out here navigating the wild world of NFL chaos, holding down the home fort like an absolute pro. 

Both Morris and his wife have been through the wringer—moving cities, riding the highs, tackling the lows, and now landing in Atlanta as the 48-year-old gears up for the 2024-2025 season. Their secret sauce? Mutual respect. They’ve got their priorities straight. Family always comes first, and whether it’s a curveball or a blitz, these two got each other’s backs.

Balancing an NFL gig with family life’s a whole playbook in itself. Morris’ schedule’s packed with long hours, constant travel, and a media circus. But his wife Nicole’s right there, helping him juggle football and dad duties—because life doesn’t stop at the end zone, does it? The power couple’s got three kids: Amaya from Morris’ previous relationship and two with Nicole, Maliya and Jalen.

According to the coach’s own father, being a dad’s totally grounded him. “He’s a family man. He loves it. He has responsibilities like I had when I had him. It’s not just about you anymore. He grew up.” The Falcons’ HC knows how to keep it real when it comes to family, whether he’s coaching a defense or running the household playbook.

Speaking of plays—there was one unforgettable family vacation in Las Vegas that will stick with them forever. While Morris’ kids were splashing around in the pool, disaster struck. A 3-year-old boy named Wyatt nearly drowned, turning blue as he lay poolside. Morris immediately sprang into action, using CPR training he picked up after Damar Hamlin’s on-field collapse to save the kid’s life. Wyatt survived, and his mom, Kelseigh Stanley, credits Morris with being a hero that day. Just another reason why this guy’s not only a coach but a lifesaver.

But back to Nicole. She’s been the glue holding everything together as the 48-year-old’s career has taken them across the country—from Tampa to D.C., to Atlanta. Through all the challenges of NFL life, including the spotlight that comes with it, they’ve kept things tight. Their secret? Shared values, plenty of communication, and understanding that sometimes you just have to roll with the punches (or in Morris’ case, the occasional sack).

As the Morris fam settles into their new chapter with the Falcons, one thing’s for sure—Nicole will continue to be the steady force behind Raheem’s chaotic NFL life. But how did these two lovebirds meet? 

How did Raheem Morris meet wife Nicole?

Picture this: it’s 2012, Raheem Morris’ just been let go from his HC gig with the Bucs, and life’s a bit of a mess. Entered Nicole, fresh off a tough loss of her own. They connect over their shared struggles—and, BAM, sparks fly.

Two years after they met for the first time, the couple tied the knot. Throughout his coaching career in three different places, Nicole’s been his rock. Morris’ career began coaching defensive backs in Washington. Later, he was Atlanta’s defensive coordinator and assistant HC. Upon Dan Quinn’s dismissal, the 48-year-old also served as interim HC. Now, he’s back with the Falcons as full-time HC. Raheem Morris and Nicole’s story proves that the best team is the one you build together off-field.

With that being said, do check out our latest Think Tank exclusive from yesterday. It’s packed with insights on college football, NIL, and the current NFL season.