Falcons assistant general manager Scott Pioli has stepped down from his position, the team announced Thursday
Pioli, 54, said he was "ready for a change" and wanted to "pursue other potential opportunities." He said he's informed general manager Thomas Dimitroff of his decision.
“After careful consideration and ongoing dialogue with Thomas over the past year I have decided to step away from my position as the assistant general manager of the Atlanta Falcons to pursue other potential opportunities,” Pioli said. “I want to thank both Arthur and Thomas for bringing my family and I here in 2014.
“When I accepted this position more than five years ago, we all believed this would likely be a two or three-year working relationship. I came in to work closely with Thomas on personnel structure, processes and decisions. I loved the concept, was confident I could provide value and have enjoyed the challenge.
“Now, after more than five years with the Falcons, I am ready for a change. I want to thank all of my co-workers at Flowery Branch as it has truly been an honor to be a part of this organization and I am thankful to have been a part of this football team and the Falcons family.”
One report linked Pioli to the Jets' vacant general manager position, but The Athletic reported there is no merit to that rumor.
“We understand and respect the decision Scott, Dallas, and their family have come to today and wish them nothing but the best,” Dimitroff said. “Over the last five years Scott has not only provided tremendous value to me, but to the entire the Falcons organization. He is a dear friend and will be missed within our organization. We are continuing to assess the structure within our organization and move forward with our next steps.”
Before joining the Falcons in 2014, Pioli was the general manager of the Chiefs from 2009-12. He was fired in January 2013.
His NFL experience began in 1992, when Pioli was hired as a pro personnel assistant by Bill Belichick, then the coach of the Browns. He also worked with the Ravens and Jets before being hired by the Patriots in 2000 as the vice president of player personnel.
Once again, Pioli was under Belichick and became the unofficial team manager for Super Bowls 37, 38 and 39. He remained in New England until he was hired by the Chiefs in 2009.