The Atlanta Falcons continue to cast a wide net in their search to reshape the front office.
According to reports, the Atlanta Falcons have officially requested permission to interview Ian Cunningham, the assistant general manager of the Chicago Bears, for their vacant executive position.
It’s a notable move that signals Atlanta’s intent to bring in a modern, forward-thinking football mind as the organization continues to retool both its roster and leadership structure.

Who Is Ian Cunningham?
Cunningham has quickly built a strong reputation around the league as one of the NFL’s rising front-office talents.
Currently serving as assistant GM in Chicago, Cunningham has been deeply involved in:
- Roster construction
- Draft evaluation
- Long-term team-building strategy
- Collaboration between scouting and analytics
Before joining the Bears, Cunningham spent time with the Eagles and Ravens organizations, working under front offices widely respected for their emphasis on sustainability, depth, and disciplined team-building.
That background alone makes him an intriguing candidate for a Falcons team looking for long-term stability.

Why the Falcons’ Interest Makes Sense
Atlanta is at a pivotal point as a franchise.
With major investments already made at quarterback and along the roster, the next step is ensuring the front-office vision aligns with sustained competitiveness. Cunningham’s experience in player evaluation, cap flexibility, and roster balance fits exactly what the Falcons appear to be prioritizing.
This request also reflects a broader league trend: teams increasingly want executives who blend traditional scouting principles with modern analytical approaches — something Cunningham is known for.

What This Means Going Forward
Requesting permission does not guarantee an interview will take place, but it does confirm that Cunningham is firmly on Atlanta’s radar.
If the process moves forward, the Falcons would be evaluating:
- His long-term team-building philosophy
- How he collaborates with coaching staffs
- His vision for drafting, free agency, and cap management
Whether or not Cunningham ultimately lands the role, the Falcons’ interest shows they are serious about upgrading the leadership pipeline and positioning the organization for sustained success.
Final Thoughts
The Falcons’ decision to pursue an interview with Ian Cunningham is another signal that the franchise is aiming high as it reshapes its front office.
As the search continues, Atlanta fans should expect more names — and more intrigue — to emerge. One thing is clear: the Falcons are intent on getting this hire right.
Stay tuned to ATL Sports Zone for updates as this story develops.