Falcons hire Saints executive Terry Fontenot as new general manager

When opportunity knocks, you answer. That’s true even if an archrival is involved.

Saints executive Terry Fontenot has been hired to be the Atlanta’s general manager.

“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,” said Arthur Blank, the Falcons owner and chairman.

New Orleans will receive two added third-round picks in back-to-back years as compensation by NFL rules for promoting minorities in front office positions.

We may be rivals. But thank you, @Saints, for giving Terry Fontenot a chance.

He is forever grateful. pic.twitter.com/kreN4cuXsZ

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) January 19, 2021

Fontenot, the former Tulane defensive back out of Lake Charles, has spent the last 16 years with the Saints in numerous roles involving scouting and player personnel. He just completed his first season as the Saints’ vice president/assistant general manager for pro personnel. The Broncos and Lions also had Fontenot in for interviews in recent weeks.