Falcons owner Arthur Blank has intensely studied some of the more successful franchises in the NFL.
One of the common traits of perennial contenders New England, Pittsburgh and Indianapolis is that they have continuity in the front office.
On Wednesday, he hoped that the Falcons took a step in that direction when general manager Thomas Dimitroff signed a multi-year contract extension.
“This extension of Thomas’ contract ensures that he and coach [Mike] Smith, whose contract was extended last month, will be able to continue to work together on solidifying the long-term sustainability and success of our football team,” Blank said. “Thomas has proven himself to be a highly skilled and talented general manager."
Since being named the general manager Jan. 13, 2008, Dimitroff has shaped the roster that has led to two playoff trips in three seasons. The franchise has posted three consecutive winning seasons for the first time in its history.
Following the 2010 season, Dimitroff was named NFL executive of the year by Sporting News. He also won the award in 2008. Since he took over, the Falcons have posted a 33-15 (.688) record, which is tied for the third best in the NFL over the past three seasons.
“I look forward to working with [Smith] and his coaching staff as we continue our journey of bringing NFL championship-caliber football to Falcons fans and to the city of Atlanta,” Dimitroff said.
Dimitroff, a 20-year scouting and personnel veteran, has made some shrewd moves since taking over the franchise that was attempting to recover from the turbulent Michael Vick-era and from its head coach, Bobby Petrino, leaving during the 2007 season for a college job.
After hiring Smith as head coach, the two worked together to construct the team’s foundation. In their first draft, they chose quarterback Matt Ryan, left tackle Sam Baker, middle linebacker Curtis Lofton, wide receiver Harry Douglas, safety Thomas DeCoud and defensive end Kroy Biermann.
His second draft wasn’t as fruitful. The top two picks -- defensive tackle Peria Jerry and safety William Moore -- missed most of the 2009 season.
Moore came on as a starter at strong safety last season, while Jerry was a situational pass rusher as he recovered from knee surgery.
His third draft produced linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, who played well when healthy, and defensive tackle Corey Peters, who cracked the starting lineup.
Under Dimitroff, the Falcons have stressed drafting players of good character and players with good football intelligence.
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