Atlanta Falcons give GM Thomas Dimitroff three-year extension

The Atlanta Falcons announced the signing of general manager Thomas Dimitroff to a three-year contract extension on Monday.

The extension runs congruent with head coach Dan Quinn's contract.

"I've always believed continuity in leadership is important to achieving the highest levels of success, be it with our football team or our businesses," Falcons owner Arthur Blank said in a statement.

"I've seen the relationship between Dan Quinn and Thomas Dimitroff grow over the last two years and we're seeing the fruits of their shared vision and plan coming together in our recent draft classes and free agent acquisitions.

Dimitroff, 50, has guided the Falcons to the playoffs in four of the last five seasons and is responsible for drafting, signing or retaining players who have combined for 22 Pro Bowl selections.

In the 2008 and 2009 seasons under Dimitroff, Atlanta posted back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in franchise history.

"I want to thank Arthur for demonstrating the confidence in what we are building here," Dimitroff said. "I have always believed it is about a head coach and general manager sharing a common vision on the type of players they are looking for and how to build a roster.

"The partnership with Dan has formed quickly and I know we are building a team here that everyone can be proud of. I understand that we still have work to do, but I know we have the people in place to reach the ultimate goal here in Atlanta."

Two of Dimitroff's multiple-time Pro Bowlers include quarterback Matt Ryan and wide receiver Julio Jones, who have helped the Falcons (6-3) to a midseason lead in the NFC South standings.

Ryan, who Dimitroff drafted No. 3 overall in his first NFL Draft as the general manager in 2008, leads the NFL in passing yards (2,980) and touchdowns (23).

Jones, who Dimitroff traded five draft picks for to select No. 6 overall in the 2011 draft, has a league-leading 970 receiving yards and five touchdown.

The duo has transitioned the Falcons into Super Bowl contenders.

"My expectations remain very high," Blank said. "By extending Thomas, we expect to see (Dimitroff and Quinn's) partnership continue to grow and deliver results for our team and our fans, on and off the field."