NY Jets latest GM candidate should be obvious top choice for the job

The NY Jets have begun the process of interviewing general manager candidates, and with the 2024 season still underway, the team has started with a host of unemployed candidates. Their most recent reported interviewee is the most intriguing thus far.

The Jets announced on Monday that they had completed an interview with former Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff for their GM vacancy. Dimitroff joins ESPN analyst Louis Riddick and former Tennessee Titans GM Jon Robinson as known candidates for the Jets' job.

A two-time Super Bowl champion, Dimitroff served as the GM of the Falcons from 2008 to 2020, amassing a 113-95 career record as an executive while leading the Falcons to six playoff appearances.

The Jets will do their due diligence on a number of GM candidates over the coming weeks, but of the three known candidates to this point, Dimitroff should be the team's obvious top choice.

Thomas Dimitroff would be an excellent GM hire for the NY Jets

Dimitroff spent 15 years working in the NFL as a scout before receiving a GM opportunity with the Falcons. He had stints with the Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, and Cleveland Browns before becoming the director of college scouting with the New England Patriots in 2003.

His track record speaks for itself. Dimitroff was instrumental in the selections of Falcons legends such as Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Grady Jarrett, and others. His draft success played a significant role in his longevity with the organization.

Dimitroff also excelled in assembling coaching staffs during his Falcons tenure. Notable hires include Kyle Shanahan, Matt LaFleur, Mike McDaniel, Raheem Morris, Dan Quinn, and Mike Smith.

There are some valid criticisms, of course. Dimitroff was responsible for a few regrettable contracts with the Falcons, such as those for Deion Jones and Ray Edwards.

Despite these shortcomings, the totality of Dimitroff's 13-year stint with the Falcons is overwhelmingly positive. Few available GM candidates can match his resume, aside from perhaps John Dorsey.

Since being fired by the Falcons in 2020, Dimitroff has founded a football analytics company, SumerSports, where he serves as CEO. His blend of scouting expertise, analytical acumen, and NFL success/experience makes him an ideal candidate.

If the Jets opt for a "retread" general manager candidate, Dimitroff might just be their best option.

More NY Jets news and analysis: