West Atlanta News

An overarching theme of Atlanta Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot's end-of-season press conference was disappointment. The nearly 30-minute session revealed Fontenot's feelings toward the Falcons' seventh consecutive losing season without a playoff bid, quarterback Kirk Cousins' midseason downfall, early defensive struggles, and missed kicks on special teams.

Fontenot expressed his dissatisfaction with his own performance as well. "I'm going to be real clear that we haven't done a good enough job — I haven't done a good enough job," he stated. "We haven't won enough. When you haven't won enough, it starts with me. It's my job to make this team a consistent winner."

In 2024, Atlanta adopted a win-now mentality under Fontenot's guidance. He played a role in selecting Raheem Morris as the new head coach after Arthur Smith's departure following three 7-10 seasons. Additionally, he signed Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract and drafted Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick to secure the team's future at quarterback. Defensive reinforcements like rookie Bralen Trice and veteran Matthew Judon were also brought in.

Despite these efforts, the Falcons ended with an 8-9 record after losing to the Carolina Panthers in Week 18. When asked about his standing within the organization, Fontenot replied, "I believe my job is to come in every day and be as effective as I can." He emphasized his focus on doing his best rather than worrying about job security.

Fontenot joined the Falcons on January 19, 2021, after spending 18 years with the New Orleans Saints in various roles including vice president/assistant general manager.

While there have been challenges, there have also been successes under Fontenot's leadership. He was instrumental in drafting promising young talents like Michael Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, and Drake London. Key free agents such as Jessie Bates III, Kaden Elliss, and Darnell Mooney were also signed during his tenure.

"We have to look at every aspect of everything we're doing," Fontenot said. "Everybody has to take a humble approach because the most important stat is wins and losses."

Fontenot concluded by acknowledging that actions speak louder than words: "We understand at this point the words don't mean anything," he said. "We have to speak with our results."