Rich McKay served as G.M. of the Falcons through 2007, one of the worst seasons any professional sports franchise has endured. From the Mike Vick prosecution to the sudden resignation of Bobby Petrino, it was a forgettable year for everyone involved.
And while the move resulted in McKay losing his position as G.M. but remaining as team president, McKay has been part of a stunning resurgence of the franchise, under G.M. Thomas Dimitroff and coach Mike Smith.
Owner Arthur Blank has rewarded McKay for his efforts by expanding his position to include the title and duties of CEO.
“Since joining the Falcons in 2003, there is no doubt that Rich has been a valuable leader of our club,” Blank said in a team-issued release. “Beyond his day-to-day duties as president of the Falcons, Rich has led a good number of key initiatives for us. In addition, he is increasingly enlisted by the league as someone who can be counted on to lend his experience, expertise and dedication to solve problems or generate new ideas.
“This promotion is in recognition of Rich’s many contributions to the Falcons and the NFL, as well as recognition of his professional accomplishments along the way.”
Boosting McKay’s standing within the Falcons and around the league was his role in the CBA negotiations. He currently serves as chairman of the Competition Committee.
