Falcons assistant GM Scott Pioli has stepped down, according to a team announcement. Atlanta’s press release offers little in the way of reasons for Pioli’s decision, except to note that he “wants to pursue other opportunities.” 
Pioli joined the Falcons in 2014 after serving as the Chiefs’ GM for four seasons. Before that, Pioli spent time with the Patriots, Jets, Ravens, and Browns.
“We understand and respect the decision Scott, Dallas and their family have come to today and wish them nothing but the best,” Falcons GM Thomas 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.”
Meanwhile, Pioli says that he never intended to stay with the Falcons for the long haul.
“When I accepted this position more than five years ago, we all believed this would likely be a two or three-year working relationship,” Pioli said. “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.”
It’s not immediately clear whether Pioli has his next opportunity lined up, but there is a newly available GM vacancy in New York.
Who could blame him? Smart guy who recognized the ceiling for this team was 2 years ago, with the floor approaching fast. He has the chops— just, like anyone else, needs the ideal situation. Atlanta will go as far as Ryan takes them, and that is on the trending-down-slope
but as an assistant gm what does the trending-down-slope have to do with him? I get what your saying but Quinn and Dimitroff jobs are in the cross hairs this season not his. Quitting now doesnt really effect his outcome unless he’s got a lead on another GM position in mind
It gives him a chance to look for another GM, or even AGM role with another team without worrying about receiving permission from the Falcons to go on interviews.
Trending-down? Not likely. Ryan produced a 69.9 CMP% with 4,944 yds, 38 tds, 7 ints, and a 117.1 Rating while winning a MVP in 2016. Down year in 2017 (first year under Sarkisian). Back to a 69.4 CMP%, 4,924 yds, 35 tds, 7 ints, 108.1 Rating in 2019. Gotta believe he will put up similar numbers for the foreseeable future with Koetter on board. He’s 34 when QBs are regularly playing into their early 40s. Couldn’t possibly have as many injuries to starters as last year. Not to mention a rebuilt OL. This team is legit and will be a contender for the next 3-5 years. But to the point…Pioli isn’t sticking around long term cause Blank has made it clear Dimitroff is his guy. No clear path in ATL to the GM job so why not see what’s out there.
Will be landing with the Jets.
Going from a team that has never won a title to a team that won one 50 years ago is a real positive step…lol.
too smart to deal with the joke Gase is…at least I hope lol