Jets Complete Interview with Thomas Dimitroff for General Manager Role

The New York Jets have concluded their interview with Thomas Dimitroff as they continue their search for a new General Manager. Dimitroff, a seasoned executive with 28 years of NFL experience, previously served as the General Manager of the Atlanta Falcons from 2008 to 2020.

A Decorated NFL Executive

Dimitroff has an impressive resume. He was named the NFL Executive of the Year twice, in 2008 and 2010, during his time in Atlanta. His tenure with the Falcons began with a bang, as his first draft pick was quarterback Matt Ryan, selected third overall in 2008. Ryan became the cornerstone of a team that achieved five consecutive winning seasons (2008–2012), made four playoff appearances, and won two NFC South titles.

Under Dimitroff’s leadership, the Falcons reached the pinnacle of success during the 2016 NFL season, advancing to Super Bowl LI under head coach Dan Quinn. Atlanta also made consecutive playoff appearances in 2016 and 2017.

Julio Jones Trade: A Legacy Defining Move

One of Dimitroff’s most memorable moves came in the 2011 NFL Draft, when he orchestrated a blockbuster trade to acquire wide receiver Julio Jones. Dimitroff sent five draft picks to the Cleveland Browns to secure the sixth overall pick and select Jones, a standout from Alabama.

The trade paid off handsomely. By the time Jones departed Atlanta in 2021, he was the franchise’s all-time leader in receptions (848) and receiving yards (12,896), while ranking second in receiving touchdowns (63). His average of 99.5 receiving yards per game was the highest in NFL history at the time.

From Canada to the NFL: A Unique Path

Born in Ohio, Dimitroff grew up in Canada and played college football as a defensive back at the University of Guelph in Ontario. His career in scouting began in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, where he served as the scouting coordinator in 1990–91.

Dimitroff’s entry into the NFL came in 1993 when he became a part-time scout for the Kansas City Chiefs. He quickly rose through the ranks, holding positions with the Detroit Lions (regional scout, 1994–97), Cleveland Browns (1998–2001), and New England Patriots (2002–2007). While with the Patriots, he served as the Director of College Scouting from 2003 onward, playing a crucial role in building two Super Bowl-winning teams under Bill Belichick.

Post-NFL Career

After leaving the Falcons in 2020, Dimitroff turned his attention to football analytics. In January 2022, he co-founded SumerSports, a company focused on providing advanced data analytics for NFL teams. The company aims to deliver “best-in-class quantitative analysis” to enhance player acquisition and roster management strategies.

The Jets’ Search for Leadership

The Jets are conducting a comprehensive search for both a General Manager and a Head Coach, led by team owner Woody Johnson. To assist in the process, the Jets have enlisted The 33rd Team, a football think tank, to help evaluate candidates and coordinate interviews.

Currently, Jeff Ulbrich is serving as the interim Head Coach, while Phil Savage is acting as the interim General Manager. Dimitroff’s proven track record in building competitive teams and his innovative approach to analytics make him a strong contender for the position.

As the Jets work to identify the right leadership, Dimitroff’s blend of experience, vision, and success in roster construction puts him in a prime position to shape the future of the franchise.