The Minnesota Vikings announced Saturday that George Paton is being promoted from director of player personnel to assistant general manager.
Paton has been one of GM Rick Spielman's most trusted advisors for years. He worked alongside Spielman with the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins before coming to the Vikings in 2007.
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The St. Louis Rams expressed interest in Paton for their vacant GM position, but Paton ultimately pulled his name out of the running to remain in Minnesota. The Rams later agreed to terms with Atlanta Falcons director of player personnel Les Snead to become their GM.
Spielman was promoted to GM earlier this offseason, giving him full control of football operations.
Spielman praised Paton's "work ethic, leadership, professionalism and keen eye for identifying talented football players" in a statement announcing that he would remain with the Vikings.
"George has been an integral part of our personnel department since he arrived in 2007," Spielman said. "His work ethic, leadership, professionalism and keen eye for identifying talented football players will continue to be a major asset for our organization as we take on the challenges of competing in the NFC North and winning the Super Bowl."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
