Falcons complete 2nd interviews with Ian Cunningham and James Liipfert for general manager position

By Canadian Press on January 29, 2026.

ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons completed second interviews with Ian Cunningham and James Liipfert for their general manager position on Thursday.

Cunningham previously interviewed for the president of football position — a role that went to former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan.

Atlanta is seeking a GM to work under Ryan and alongside new coach Kevin Stefanski.

Cunningham has served as the Chicago Bears’ assistant general manager for the past four years. He spent five seasons in various scouting and player personnel roles with the Philadelphia Eagles before landing in Chicago.

His first NFL front-office role was in Baltimore, where he was a player personnel assistant for five seasons with the Ravens.

Liipfert has spent the past eight seasons with the Houston Texans, including the 2025 season as assistant general manager.

A native of Marshallville, Georgia, Liipfert played linebacker at Georgia Tech. He was a scout for the New England Patriots for nine seasons before joining the Texans.

The Falcons have interviewed four other candidates: Andy Weidl, Josh Williams, Mike Bradway and Joe Douglas. Williams was also considered for president of football.

Atlanta fired general manager Terry Fontenot and coach Raheem Morris after an 8-9 season. Fontenot served as GM from 2021-25.

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The Associated Press