After Ryan Pace was hired as general manager of the Chicago Bears, Fontenot started working closely with the college’s scout director and former Dolphins manager Jeff Ireland, Loomis and lead technician Sean Payton to develop a versatile group that could identify players who fit the mold team, whether they were on NFL rosters, practice squads, free agents, college players or others.
Fontenot was named Loomis’ right-hand man in 2020, when his role expanded to become assistant vice president / general manager of professional personnel.
“In the past 18 years, I have been honored and blessed with the opportunity to learn and grow in a large organization,” said Fontenot. “I have no words to express my thanks and gratitude to the late Mr. Benson, Mrs. Benson, Mickey Loomis, Dennis Lauscha, Coach Payton and the entire Saints family. Without his guidance and guidance, I would not be in the position I am in today, and we are grateful for everything they have provided to our family for almost two decades.
“Because of his leadership and the opportunities he provided me, I was selective about the direction my career would take, with a focus on organizations aligned with my principles and goals. With the Atlanta Falcons, I found the perfect opportunity for my next family steps I am honored and grateful that Arthur Blank and Rich McKay have granted me this privilege and I look forward to working with both Arthur Smith and our entire organization as we strive together to achieve our competitive goals and the fans the performances that they My family and I are thrilled to build our new home in Atlanta and look forward to meeting our other Falcon fans. “