Falcons interview Bears’ assistant GM Ian Cunningham as they continue search for a general manager

By Canadian Press on January 23, 2026.

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) — Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham has become the third general manager candidate to be interviewed by the Atlanta Falcons, the team announced on Friday.

Cunningham, who first spoke with the Falcons for the president of football position given to former longtime quarterback Matt Ryan, is considered a top candidate in the search for a general manager. Ryan is leading the search for the position as the latest step in the makeover of the team leadership.

Owner Arthur Blank fired coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after an 8-9 finish, the team’s eighth consecutive losing season. The Falcons hired former Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski to replace Morris. On Thursday, Tommy Rees, who worked on Stefanski’s staff in Cleveland, was named offensive coordinator after Stefanski retained Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinator.

Cunningham has worked the last four seasons as the Bears’ assistant general manager following five seasons in various roles with the Philadelphia Eagles, including as director of player personnel.

Cunningham has worked in Chicago with general manager Ryan Poles, who was Ryan’s college teammate at Boston College.

Ryan and the Falcons previously interviewed Houston Texans assistant general manager James Liipfert and Pittsburgh Steelers assistant general manager Andy Weidl.

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The Associated Press