The Atlanta Falcons have their new head coach in Arthur Smith and now have their new general manager, as they have officially announced the hiring of Terry Fontenot.
Fontenot, who served as the New Orleans Saints assistant general manager of pro personnel, apparently landed the job last week but could not officially be hired until the Saints season was over. The Saints were eliminated from the playoffs following their loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.
Fontenot has spent his entire 18-year career with the Saints.
“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. We feel very strongly that we’ve found that individual in Terry Fontenot,” Falcons owner Arthur Blank said in the announcement. “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.”
