Detroit Lions to interview former Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff

Another general manager candidate has emerged for the Detroit Lions. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Detroit is planning to interview former Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff for their current general manager vacancy.

Dimitroff was relieved from his duties with the Falcons back in October, when the team decided to part ways with him and head coach Dan Quinn. Prior to that, Dimitroff served as the team’s general manager for 12 years, overseeing the team’s Super Bowl run in 2016. During his time at GM, he was also named Sporting News Executive of the Year twice (2008, 2010). Some notable draft picks during his run as general manager include Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Corey Peterson, Vic, Beasley, Devonta Freeman, Austin Hooper, Grady Jarrett, TEvin Coleman and Jake Matthews.

Dimitroff’s experience goes well beyond his time in Atlanta, as well. He spent five years as the director of college scouting for the New England Patriots between 2003-07, helping the team achieve two Super Bowl titles during that time. Before that, Dimitroff spent eight years in the NFL as a scout, including four years with the Detroit Lions back in 1994-97.

Dimitroff joins four other known external candidates for the job: Louis Riddick, Jerry Reese, Terry Fontenot and Rick Smith. As of now, only Riddick, Dimitroff, and Smith have reported interviews schedule (Ian Rapoport says Smith will interview next week). Detroit has also already interviewed three internal candidates: Kyle O’Brien, Lance Newmark, and Rob Lohman.