Falcons extend Mike Smith, execs
— -- The Atlanta Falcons on Monday announced contract extensions for coach Mike Smith, president and CEO Rich McKay and general manager Thomas Dimitroff.
McKay received a four-year extension through 2019, while Smith and Dimitroff received one-year extensions.
"We are fortunate to have talented key leaders at the Falcons who are dedicated to a common goal of being a league leader on and off the field," owner Arthur Blank said in a statement released by the team. "I have great respect for the skills and commitment of Rich, Thomas and Smitty, and I look forward to continuing to support and work with them in the years to come."
There was talk of McKay possibly returning to Tampa Bay after the Buccaneers made wholesale changes to their front office.
Dimitroff recently enhanced the personnel department by adding his former boss in New England, Scott Pioli, as assistant general manager. Dimitroff expressed confidence in having a strong front office with himself, Pioli and director of player personnel Lionel Vital leading the way.
Both Blank and Dimitroff expressed support for Smith through Atlanta's dismal 4-12 season. It was Smith's first losing record since taking over the Falcons in 2008.
Smith signed a three-year contract extension in February 2011 with one year remaining on his original four-year deal. He was making $2.2 million per year prior to the initial extension.
The 54-year-old Smith is 60-36 in six seasons with the Falcons, who have reached the playoffs four times in that stretch.
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