The Atlanta Falcons were expected to soar high this season, with their explosive offensive prowess and talented roster. However, what unfolded on the field did not align with their lofty expectations, and the team failed to secure a spot in the postseason. This ultimately led to the firing of both general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris by owner Arthur Blank. But in the midst of this upheaval, people are wondering: how much do the Falcons actually owe Terry Fontenot?
Fontenot joined the Falcons in January 2021 after spending 18 seasons with the New Orleans Saints as their director of pro scouting. He was highly regarded for his ability to identify and acquire top talent, playing a crucial role in the Saints’ success.
When he was first brought on board, Blank praised Fontenot for his exceptional talent evaluation skills, saying, “We are happy to introduce Terry as our new general manager. In his various roles with New Orleans, he has helped build a strong roster with numerous players that have played important roles in their success. His abilities in talent evaluation, leadership and management make him the right fit for the Falcons organization.”
Blank’s words showed his confidence in Fontenot’s abilities and the organization’s high expectations for him. However, the team’s lackluster performance and failure to meet their objectives have raised questions about whether Fontenot lived up to those expectations.
According to reports, Fontenot signed a four-year contract with the Falcons with an option for a fifth year, which is standard for NFL general managers. He was also expected to receive an annual salary in the range of $1.5 to $2 million.
While the details of his contract have not been made public, it is likely that Fontenot’s salary was heavily performance-based, meaning his compensation would increase with the team’s success. As such, his underwhelming performance this season would likely result in a smaller payout compared to if the team had made it to the postseason.
However, it is important to note that Fontenot’s role as general manager goes beyond just on-field performance. He also has an important hand in shaping the team’s culture and overall direction. It takes time for a general manager to implement their vision and make significant changes, and just one season may not be enough to fully judge Fontenot’s impact.
Furthermore, the Falcons had a difficult season, battling injuries and facing tough competition. They also had a new coaching staff and several new players, all of which contributed to the team’s struggles. It would be unfair to place all the blame on Fontenot for their shortcomings.
But as the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility. As the general manager, Fontenot holds a significant amount of responsibility for the team’s performance, and in this case, their lack thereof. It remains to be seen if Blank will hold him accountable for the disappointing season and use his option to terminate his contract.
However, it is important to remember that Fontenot is still a young general manager and has the potential to grow and improve in his role. He has shown his expertise in talent evaluation in the past and has the drive to succeed. If given more time and support, he could lead the Falcons to the success they so desperately desire.
In conclusion, while the Falcons may owe Fontenot some money as part of his contract, it is more important to focus on his contributions to the team beyond just their on-field performance. He is a skilled professional who has the potential to turn the Falcons into a powerhouse team. So, it is crucial that Blank and the Falcons organization give him the support and time he needs to fully establish his vision and prove his worth. Only then can the team truly assess the value Terry Fontenot brings to the organization.
