ENGLEWOOD, Colorado – The Broncos chose the new leader of their front office.
Denver made a deal with George Paton to become the team’s new general manager, the Broncos announced on Wednesday.
Paton, formerly vice president of personnel for the Vikings’ assistant general manager / player, became the 15th personnel executive in the history of the Broncos.
“At the beginning of that process, it was clear why George was such a coveted GM candidate for so many years,” said President of Football Operations, John Elway. “He is a proven appraiser who knows all the details of football’s leadership operations. With his experience in all aspects of the job – college and professional sides, salary cap, business, working with the head coach and bringing the team together – George is more than ready to succeed in this role. George waited and worked for the right opportunity, which shows that he is smart and serious about winning. We are excited to appoint George Paton as general manager of the Denver Broncos. “
Paton has spent 14 seasons in Minnesota, including the last nine as the team’s assistant GM. He assumed his most recent position as vice president of gambling personnel / assistant general manager in 2018.
“George is one of the most respected and experienced staff executives in the NFL,” said President / CEO Joe Ellis. “He is a composite and collaborative leader with a clear vision of building a champion team. Meeting George in the past week, his intelligence, work ethic and leadership skills has impressed us all. He has worked for almost 25 years in the NFL to prepare for this challenge, and we are very fortunate to have George as our new general manager. We are excited to welcome George, his wife Barbara and their children Bella and Beau to the Broncos family. “
During his time with the Vikings, Paton worked closely with general manager Rick Spielman to help build a list that has reached the playoffs in three of the past six seasons and has won two division titles since 2015.
“It is an honor to be appointed general manager of an iconic franchise with a tradition in championships like the Denver Broncos,” said Paton. “This organization has great resources, incredible people, a young core of talented players and an exceptional technical team.
“In many ways, I feel that this team is a sleeping giant. For me, it is the right place and the right time for this opportunity.
“Throughout this process, I felt a real connection with Joe, John and Vic. It’s like we’re at home. We share the same values about winning and doing things right.
“Although it is difficult to leave the Vikings, the relationships I have had in Minnesota are for life. I am really grateful for the Wilf family, Rick Spielman, Rob Brzezinski, Mike Zimmer and the entire Vikings organization. Thank you for treating us like family.
“I believe in hard work, grind and not taking shortcuts to reach our goals. Selection and development of players is the number one priority. We will be aggressive – but not reckless – when adding talent to our squad.
“Our family has heard nothing but great things about Colorado, especially passionate fans in Broncos Country. Along with my wife Barbara and children Bella and Beau, we are proud to now call Denver our home.
“I can’t wait to get to work. Go to the Broncos!”
The Vikings made six playoff appearances – with six different starting defenders – and won four division titles in total during Paton’s time in Minneapolis.