Falcons hire Saints exec Fontenot as new GM

The Atlanta Falcons have hired New Orleans Saints director of player personnel Terry Fontenot as their new general manager, the team announced Tuesday.

Fontenot spent 18 seasons rising through the ranks of New Orleans' front office. He spent the seven years prior to 2020 as the Saints' director of pro scouting before being promoted to assistant general manager to Mickey Loomis.

"When we started this process, we were focused on finding someone that not only has a track record of identifying key building blocks that result in successful teams but also someone who focuses on cohesive relationships within the building," Falcons owner Arthur Blank said. "We feel very strongly that we've found that individual in Terry Fontenot.

"In his past positions, he has shown the ability to make strong decisions and judgments that result in championship-caliber teams while also understanding a variety of viewpoints and respecting a collaborative process throughout. Landing a leader of Terry's stature, I believe our organization, players, fans, and community will have confidence in our approach throughout this process as I am certain Terry will represent them and the expectations they have to a high level."

Fontenot will take over a veteran-heavy team looking to rebound from three straight years without a playoff appearance. The Falcons finished 4-12 this season after firing longtime head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Thomas Dimitroff in October.

Atlanta has already picked its new head coach, agreeing to a deal with Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.

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