Former Atlanta Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot is taking his talents to New York, but not to work for the Giants or the Jets. Fontenot posted an update on his Instagram account saying he's headed to the "Big Apple" after accepting a job in the NFL's corporate office.
"Our time in Atlanta has come to an end," Fontenot wrote under a photo of his family. "On to our next adventure in the Big Apple! From the Saints to the Falcons to the NFL corporate office. Our journey continues. Gods plan. All blessings."
The Falcons did not make the playoffs during Fontenot's five-year tenure in Atlanta, but they were always right around .500 and drafted many of their current core players. In the months since firing their former GM, the Falcons have re-signed
Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Kyle Pitts and Matthew Bergeron - each of whom was drafted by Fontenot.
Former Falcons GM Terry Fontenot has accepted a position with the NFL’s league office in New York City according to a post on his personal Instagram today pic.twitter.com/Tt8L0fZAlt
— Garrett Chapman (@gchapatl) August 23, 2026
While Fontenot was frequently criticized for his lack of success finding defensive talent in the draft, he seemed to turn that around in 2024 and 2025. The team whiffed on Ruke Orhorhoro in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, but the Falcons landed breakout defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus two rounds later.
Last season, Atlanta added Xavier Watts, Jalon Walker, Billy Bowman and James Pearce. All four players started for the team as rookies in 2025 and should play big roles over the next few seasons.
The Falcons also identified some key defensive talent in free agency in recent years. Linebackers Kaden Elliss and Divine Deablo were both questioned when Fontenot signed them, but they paid off big for Atlanta's defense. It wasn't all good, though, and Fontenot made his share of mistakes.
However, similar to former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, Fontenot wasn't nearly as bad as some made him out to be. Ultimately, if you miss the playoffs five years in a row in the NFL, you're unlikely to keep your job.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Former Falcons general manager lands NFL job in New York
