Born May 5, 1970 in La Canada Flintridge, CA. Pronounced "PAY-ton." 29th NFL season, 5th as Broncos GM on 6-year contract. Son of high school football coach Tom Paton. Loyola HS (Los Angeles, 1984-87): two-way standout at QB and safety, 1986 All-Del Rey League at QB, team MVP, helped team reach CIF quarterfinals. UCLA DB (1988-91): four-year letterman, two bowl games. Played professionally in Italy and Austria. Head coach of Loyola sophomore team (1995-96): back-to-back undefeated league championships. Bears (1997-2000): scouting assistant to assistant director of pro personnel. Dolphins director of pro personnel (2001-06): worked with HC Nick Saban. Vikings (2007-20, 14 seasons): director of player personnel (2007-11), AGM (2012-20), VP of player personnel added (2018). Worked directly with GM Rick Spielman on all decisions, helped establish analytics department. Built three playoff teams (2015, 2017, 2019), reached 2017 NFC Championship. GM finalist St. Louis (2012), turned down multiple interview requests. As Broncos GM: drafted Pat Surtain II (9th overall, 2021 - 2024 AP DPOY), Bo Nix (12th overall, 2024 - franchise rookie records), Nik Bonitto, Marvin Mims Jr. Four draft classes produced 4 All-Pros, 3 Pro Bowlers, AP DPOY, 4 PFWA All-Rookies. 2021 Best Draft Award from Inside the League. Returned Broncos to playoffs (2024) for first time since 2015. Works closely with HC Sean Payton. Wife Barbara; children Bella and Beau.