The Chicago Bears could soon see another key member of their front office depart, as league connections and timing align around assistant general manager Ian Cunningham and the Atlanta Falcons’ search for their next general manager.
With former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan widely expected to take on a prominent leadership role in Atlanta’s football operations, Cunningham’s ties to Bears GM Ryan Poles may play a pivotal role in shaping Atlanta’s future leadership.
Matt Ryan’s Relationship With Ryan Poles Strengthens Atlanta’s GM Search
GettyFormer quarterback Matt Ryan looks on during the Ring of Honor ceremony at halftime of the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Falcons have already formally requested to interview Cunningham for their vacant GM position. That request comes as Cunningham continues to be one of the most respected rising executives in the league, and one who has been a finalist for multiple general manager openings in recent hiring cycles.
SI’s Albert Breer previously highlighted this connection, noting that Ryan’s closeness with Poles naturally places Cunningham in a strong position should Atlanta look to replicate what the Bears are doing in their front office.
Cunningham, for one, has been directly involved in Chicago’s dramatic roster-overhaul, draft strategy, and long-term vision, making him an attractive candidate for a Falcons organization seeking stability and vision after years of inconsistency.
If there’s any doubt that Cunningham hasn’t been a key figure with the Bears, he’s the reason why Poles didn’t trade up to draft Rome Odunze, and he’s been Poles’ right-hand man in every single decision.
Ian Cunningham’s Rising Profile and What His Departure Would Mean for Chicago
Cunningham’s candidacy extends beyond personal relationships. He has steadily built a league-wide reputation as one of the NFL’s top executive minds, particularly in scouting, player evaluation, and organizational leadership. His repeated presence as a finalist for general manager roles underscores how highly he is regarded across the league.
Cunningham’s expected departure would be a significant loss for the Bears, particularly as the team continues to build around a young core and navigate pivotal roster decisions in the coming seasons.
However, even if Cunningham were to depart, it’s not a total loss for the Bears. Chicago would receive not one, but two third-round selections! It’s hard to ignore Poles’ history with his third-round picks (not good…), but it’s still a nice bonus nonetheless.
This is Cunningham’s 3rd offseason getting requested to interview for a teams GM role.
Bears will get two 3rd-round compensatory picks IF he’s hired.
For Atlanta, the timing makes sense. With Ryan poised to reshape the Falcons’ football operations and Cunningham having the experience and skill necessary to thrive as a first-time GM, the alignment of relationships and ambition is difficult to ignore. While nothing is finalized, the groundwork for a significant front office shift is imminent in Chicago.
Matt Ryan Connection Could Result in Bears Losing Key Executive Figure