The Atlanta Falcons have soared to new heights, announcing some electrifying promotions and key hires that are set to shake up their football operations. Hold onto your hats, Falcons fans – here’s the rundown!
In a move that has been eagerly anticipated, Ryan Pace has been promoted to Vice President of Football Operations/Player Personnel. This seasoned football maestro joined the Falcons in 2022 as a senior personnel executive, before impressively stepping up as director of player personnel in 2023. Falcons fans, do those names ring a bell? They sure should – Pace is formerly the guiding force behind the Chicago Bears’ front office, steering the ship as their General Manager for seven seasons (2015-21). Before his Windy City stint, he was a key cog in the New Orleans Saints’ personnel department from 2001-14.
Meet the Newly Promoted Falcons
The Falcons haven’t stopped there, folks. They’ve announced a roster of internal promotions that’ll make you want to stand up and cheer.
Tokunbo “Tumbo” Abanikanda – Director of College Scouting
Starting as a scouting assistant way back in 2012, Abanikanda’s journey with the Falcons has been nothing short of meteoric. Like a fast-tracked rookie from the draft, he soared from an area scout focusing on the Southeast in 2013 to becoming a national scout in 2021. Now, he’s taken the helm as the Director of College Scouting.
Michael Ross – Assistant Director of College Scouting
Michael Ross’ story is a real Cinderella tale in the NFL world. Joining as a player personnel intern in 2008, Ross has collected promotions like Julio Jones collects touchdowns. Fingers crossed that this seventh promotion is his lucky charm!
Hakeem Smith – Pro Scout
Smith’s ascent through the Falcons’ ranks has been like a thrilling touchdown drive. Born into the Falcons staff in 2022 as a scouting assistant, upgraded to assistant pro scout in 2023, and now, he’s been crowned Pro Scout.
Stephanie Gutierrez – Senior Director of Football Systems
Gutierrez, who joined the Falcons’ nest in 2018, is the cerebral powerhouse behind their internal football operation apps. Imagine her as the quarterback of technology, seamlessly integrating operational strategies and leading the digital charge.
Danny Leskin – Manager of Football Data Science
Leskin’s role has evolved like a running back who found his new gear. From a football analyst in 2018 to senior coordinator of football analytics, he’s shown he knows the game behind the numbers. Now, he’s the manager, aiding every football department with his numerical insights.
Nathan Ellis – Scouting Coordinator
Ellis, a name to remember, joined as a scouting assistant in 2023 after sharpening his skills at the University of South Carolina. He’s now set to scout the stars of tomorrow in his new role.
New Additions to the Falcons’ Flock
Gearing up for the future, the Falcons have also roped in some fresh talent.
- Harrison Ritcher – National Scout
- Cami Pasqualoni – Scouting Assistant
- Kevin Weisman – Scouting Assistant
These new hires bring passion and precision to the Falcons, ensuring that the team’s playbook remains as sharp as a two-minute drill.
Keep your eyes on the gridiron, Falcons fans. This exciting shuffling of the front office deck is poised to drive the Atlanta Falcons back to the Promised Land. Fasten your seatbelts – it’s going to be one heck of a ride!
