Vikings Lose Assistant GM George Paton to the Broncos
The news has just emerged that George Paton, one of the central figures in the Minnesota Vikings’ front office, will be hired by the Denver Broncos. Adam Shefter reports that it’s a six-year deal to become Denver’s GM.
This is a good move by the Broncos. Paton has been universally praised within the Vikings’ organization as a key figure in evaluating personnel. This was his 14th season in Minnesota. Until being hired by Denver, Paton’s role was as the Vice President of Player Personnel/Assistant General Manager. He has had several opportunities to go elsewhere, but Paton has stayed with the Vikings for a long time.
Time for a new No. 1 item on my story of 10 predictions for the offseason that's running tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/kQyFQVkaf6
— Chad Graff (@ChadGraff) January 13, 2021
Chad Graff – one of the best Vikings writers in the business – does a nice job of breaking down Paton’s importance. As Graff indicates, part of the fear is that Paton will bring some of the personnel and scouting staff with him. Only time will tell.
During this past offseason, the Vikings underwent a massive roster overhaul that resulted in a record-breaking fifteen-person draft class. Paton was a key part of the equation here. Minnesota heads into this offseason looking to complete the process that is only partially complete. They once again have double-digit draft picks. They’ll also be looking to snag some underrated, though impactful free agents. The process will be harder for the Minnesota Vikings without George Paton.
Recently, Vikings fans have been expressing their frustration with Minnesota’s Leadership Trinity. I can understand this frustration. Nevertheless, the fact that other teams commonly hire from within Minnesota’s organization suggests that our team is doing something right. Hopefully this translates to on-field success sooner rather than later.
I, alongside hopefully other Minnesota Vikings fans, wish George Paton the best.
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