The Chicago Bears had an intriguing offseason, but lost a significant part of the front office. The Atlanta Falcons hired assistant general manager Ian Cunningham and promoted him to their general manager position. However, things are not going as expected for the Bears as they were expecting to be awarded by the NFL a compensatory pick. The NFL responded to the team on Friday, so let’s take a closer look at what they decided and what it means.

The Chicago Bears are denied any compensatory picks due to Ian Cunningham’s hire by Atlanta

Chicago will not be receiving any compensatory picks after their appeal. On Friday, the league officially rejected the appeal, meaning the third-round compensatory pick will not be given to the Bears.

“The matter is now closed following the club’s appeal. The NFL informed the Bears today they will not receive compensatory picks. The policy is desinged to provide picks for the Primary Football Executive position. The League determined Mr. Cunningham did not fill that role with the Falcons as it is defined in League rules.”

While this is the NFL’s stance, their operations seem to have it worded a bit differently. Below is from the NFL Operations regarding the Rooney Rule:

“In November 2020, team owners approved a proposal rewarding teams who developed minority talent that went on to become GMs or head coaches across the league. If a team lost a minority executive or coach to another team, that team would receive a third-round compensatory pick for two years.”

The Bears argued that Cunningham’s hire by the Falcons would fit this criteria, but it appears not. As a result, Cunningham is going to a new organization as the team’s general manager. Cunningham handled the duties of a general manager during the spring meeting, including being in the annual GM photo. However, the league determined this was not enough.

Chicago will now have their allotted picks known and zero compensatory selections as a result.

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It’s no surprise that rumors are flying that the Chicago Bears could trade backup quarterback Tyson Bagent.

Bagent proved within the last two years, that he’s one of the very best backup quarterbacks in the NFL. During Tuesday’s media session, general manager Ryan Poles confirmed that the team has received calls from other teams regarding Bagent’s availability.

The biggest question now is, what team will want to trade for Bagent?

The Atlanta Falcons has been listed as a potential trade partner for the Chicago Bears

More news: NFL News: Chicago Bears’ Ben Johnson continues beef with Green Bay Packers in a hilarious moment

According to NFL reporter Evan Sidery, the Atlanta Falcons could potentially be a trade partner for the Bears’ backup QB.

The Falcons are viewed as a potential trade destination for Tyson Bagent.

The Bears appear open to moving Bagent, who could fetch Day 2 draft pick value as one of the NFL’s best backups thus far.

New Atlanta GM Ian Cunningham worked under Ryan Poles in Chicago. pic.twitter.com/4g5axN0m0g

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) February 24, 2026

The idea of Atlanta trading for Bagent does make sense, due to the team confirming they will be releasing veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.

And with questions over starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. still looming, they might want to take a swing on a proven backup that deserves a chance.

With former Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham running the show in Atlanta, it’s very possible he could be interesting in bringing Bagent in.

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Earlier this off-season Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles saw his top assistant, Ian Cunningham, hired away by the Atlanta Falcons. Per NFL rules, the Bears believed that they would be receiving two third-round compensatory picks. Cunningham, after all, was hired to be the Falcons general manager.

As he is an African American, Chicago expected that the NFL rule that rewards compensatory picks to organizations whose minority executives get hired as top executives elsewhere would apply.

However, Atlanta previously hired their former quarterback, Matt Ryan, as their President of Football. As of this writing, the NFL has declared that Cunningham is not the top executive for the Falcons. Therefore, the Bears will not receive any compensatory picks.

Chicago, however, is appealing that decision.

Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles does not think there should even be a rule regarding minority execuitves

The controversy that has surrounded Cunningham and the Bears regarding draft compensation may have died weeks ago if not for one thing. Ryan is leaving all football personnel decisions up to Cunningham. On paper, the former Falcons quarterback is the top executive. But in practice, Cunningham is.

Poles, for his part, is pushing for the NFL to honor the Bears with the draft compensation they deserve. However, based on his comments at the NFL scouting combine, he does not believe there should even be a rule:

#Bears GM Ryan Poles says the NFL’s rule awarding two 3rd-round picks if a minority coach or executive leaves to become a GM or HC is a strange rule.

“At the end of the day, you should want to develop your staff regardless of the color of their skin.” https://t.co/X0XZFPGLxh pic.twitter.com/XTrl3jew0k

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 24, 2026

“At the end of the day, you should want to develop your staff regardless of the color of their skin,” Poles said.

Poles, of course, has a good point. In a perfect world, there would be no need for the rule that has been at the center of so much discussion as of late.

More Chicago Bears news from ChiCity Sports

• Bears draft controversy is not over (report)
• Bears react to Rome Odunze’s off-season move
• Bears CB Nahshon Wright comes in at bottom half of NFL top 101 free agents list

For More Chicago Sports

Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Robin Adams via email at robadams14@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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After a few years of being turned down for jobs, former Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham landed a big role. Cunningham was named general manager of the Atlanta Falcons, moving on to the next step in his career.

Now, as Cunningham arrives at his first combine as the head man in charge, he’s making his first big decision.

Ian Cunningham, Falcons moving on from Kirk Cousins

As the NFL Scouting Combine gets underway in Indianapolis this week, a lot of talk will be on potential free agents. Now, we can officially add another one to the list for teams needing a quarterback.

Ian Cunningham confirmed Tuesday morning during an appearance on 92.9 The Game in Atlanta that the Falcons will release veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins when the new league year begins in March. Cousins signed a four-year deal in 2024 worth $180M with $100M guaranteed. He lasted just two seasons in Atlanta as the Falcons also drafted Michael Penix in the 2024 season.

#Falcons GM Ian Cunningham confirmed on @929TheGame that Kirk Cousins will be released in March on the first day of the new league year, making him a free agent.

Cousins earned $100M during his two seasons with Atlanta. pic.twitter.com/gFKAXXBl8p

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 24, 2026

The Falcons are in a tough spot as Penix had a season-ending injury last year and likely won’t be ready for the start of 2026. Even so, Penix hasn’t proved to be a franchise quarterback the Falcons had hoped he would be.

The challenge now for Ian Cunningham is to find a long-term solution at quarterback. It’s a relatively weak draft class in terms of quarterbacks. The Falcons likely aren’t going to make a big move in free agency for one either. But the most important thing is that they made a decision on a veteran that cost them a lot of money.

Now, Cunningham has to do one of the hardest things in sports. Find a franchise quarterback.

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When former Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham left the team for the Atlanta Falcons, it seemed the Bears would be rewarded with two third round compensatory draft picks, but that did not happen.

More news: Chicago Bears’ DJ Moore just sent a message to the rest of the NFL

The NFL rewards teams with compensatory draft picks when a minority candidate leaves for a head coaching or general manager upgrade. Cunningham left the Bears to become the general manager for the Falcons.

However, the Bears will not be rewarded these draft picks due to the Falcons having Matt Ryan as their “primary football executive”.

The former Falcons quarterback and now head of football operations now has shockingly admitted what Cunningham’s role will be.

The Chicago Bears have gotten screwed by the NFL

More news: Chicago Bulls trade deadline grade revealed

Ryan confirmed in an interview with CBS Sports that Cunningham will be in charge of both the draft process and free agency.

Via Ari Meirov on X:

#Falcons president Matt Ryan says GM Ian Cunningham will be the one driving the ship and in charge when it comes to the draft and free agency.

( @NFLonCBS) pic.twitter.com/i9jg4OKM1K

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 5, 2026

This essentially confirms that Cunningham will be steering the ship in Atlanta. Which means the Bears should clearly get two third round picks in the 2026 draft.

Because Ryan still has the “final say” in football moves for the Falcons, the Bears won’t be rewarded with two very solid draft picks that could upgrade their team in a number of ways,

The Bears front office has to be absolutely furious with this.

The post Matt Ryan has made a shocking admission regarding Ian Cunningham hire appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears have now lost a very valuable asset to their front office staff. Assistant general manager Ian Cunningham was hired by the Atlanta Falcons to serve as their general manager on Thursday.

More news: Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles gives worrying update on Ozzy Trapilo for 2026 season

After multiple years of being a finalist for GM jobs, Cunningham will be leaving the Bears to report directly under legendary quarterback and new Falcons president of football operations Matt Ryan.

Unfortunately for Bears general manager Ryan Poles, the team has now received some brutal news regarding the 2026 NFL draft due to Cunningham’s exit.

The Chicago Bears will not be receiving compensatory draft picks for 2026

More news:Chicago Bears lose Ian Cunningham to Atlanta Falcons GM position

According to CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones, the Bears will not receive the two third-round compensatory draft picks that are given from the NFL.

This is reportedly because the NFL league office does not consider the Falcons GM job a “primary football executive job” according to Jones.

Jones states that the NFL considers the Falcons GM job a “secondary position” due to Cunningham reporting directly to Ryan, the head of football operations.

“The general manager role in Atlanta is like most other GM gigs across the league with one exception: this job is not what the league office considers the “primary football executive” position. Cunningham is considered a secondary football executive who reports to Ryan, the PFE as designated by the team and league office.”

It was also reported by Jones that the Bears front office knew they would not receive these draft picks for a while, but allowed Cunningham to still interview for the job.

For the past few years, the NFL has given teams compensatory draft picks if a minority front office member or coach took roles at general manager or as a head coach.

Unfortunately for the Bears, they have somehow managed to lose out on two draft picks thanks to the NFL.

The post Chicago Bears get brutal draft news following Cunningham exit appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears have received respect for rebuilding the team and turning things around quickly. Winning the NFC North and winning a playoff game this season showed other franchises that the Bears have the tools to be successful for a long time. However, they will be without one of their key front office personnel as he has accepted a position with another team. Let’s take a closer look at all the details about the move.

Ian Cunningham is named as the Atlanta Falcons’ general manager

ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting that the Atlanta Falcons have hired Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham to become the team’s next general manager. This is something that has been rumored, but Cunningham will finally get the general manager position after years of interviews. This is going to be intriguing to see how he does as after weeks of interviews, he has been selected for the position.

Cunningham was a finalist in the Jacksonville Jaguars and Washington Commanders general manager searches over the last few years, and even turned down the position with the Arizona Cardinals. He was with the Bears from 2022-25 as the assistant general manager, but has worked in the NFL since going undrafted in the 2008 draft and transitioning to the front office.

It is not known at this point who will replace Cunningham for the Bears, but this shows how well of a job he has done to make Chicago a viable destination for winning. Now,  general manager Ryan Poles will need to figure out a new right-hand man for the front office. Cunningham was considered a secondary football executive, meaning the Bears will not receive a compensation pick as a result of this hire. It will be interesting to see how he does as a general manager and what the Bears do going forward to fill that void in the front office.

The post Chicago Bears lose Ian Cunningham to Atlanta Falcons GM position appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles may be about to lose one of his top lieutenants.

As tends to happen for successful organizations, the Bears are becoming a top target for teams looking to fill general manager, head coaching, and coordinator roles, hoping to capture some of what helped propel Chicago’s turnaround in 2025.

While Bears offensive coordinator Declan Doyle withdrew from consideration for the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive coordinator vacancy, one of Chicago’s top front office executives is still garnering significant interest.

Chicago Bears’ Ian Cunningham set for second interview for Falcons GM job

According to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham is slated for a second in-person interview with the Atlanta Falcons, for their general manager vacancy.

Cunningham, 40, is widely viewed as a rising star as an evaluator inside league circles, and arrived in Chicago in 2022 as Ples’ assistant general manager.

Prior to landing with the Bears, Cunningham spent five seasons climbing the ranks in the Philadelphia Eagles’ front office, rising from a director of college scouting in 2017 to becoming general manager Howie Roseman’s Director of Player Personnel in 2021.

If Cunningham were hired by the Falcons, he’d be working alongside former quarterback Matt Ryan, who was recently hired as Atlanta’s President of Football, with new head coach Kevin Stefanski already in place.

The post Chicago Bears top executive set for second general manager interview appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Last week, reports surfaced that Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles was working with Matt Ryan to help the Atlanta Falcons during their hiring process.

More News: Bears: Weather looks nastier now for Rams game

Poles and Ryan were teammates at Boston College. On Jan. 10, Ryan was named the president of football with the Falcons, a newly created position that will serve as the primary football executive for the team.

Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham was a candidate for both the president of football gig and general manager position with Atlanta.

Because taking the general manager job with Atlanta would be a lateral move, Chicago would not receive two compensatory draft picks if Cunningham became the Falcons general manager.

A source told ChiCitySports last week that Bears head coach Ben Johnson wouldn’t be unhappy if Cunningham took the job with the Falcons.

CCS has more to add to that story this weekend.

It appears Johnson has his eyes on a possible replacement for Cunningham.

Per a source with knowledge of the Falcons search, don’t be surprised if Bears senior director of player personnel Jeff King gets a look for the assistant general manager job if Cunningham takes the job in Atlanta.

King is a guy that’s highly respected inside Halas Hall, and could be a “prime” candidate to become the assistant general manager if Cunningham leaves.

Chicago Bears think highly of Jeff King

King, a former tight end with the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals, started his scouting career with the Bears in 2015 as an intern. He’s taken roles with Chicago as pro scout, assistant director of pro scouting, director of pro scouting, and co-director of player personnel.

Last week, Cunningham appeared to be the favorite to become the general manager of the Falcons. However, rumors are swirling that Josh Williams, San Francisco 49ers’ director of scouting and football, is now the frontrunner for the general manager job in Atlanta.

Multiple people I’ve spoken with believe Matt Ryan will hire Klint Kubiak as the next Falcons Head Coach. Ties to the Shanahan tree and the perfect offense for Penix. 49ers Josh Williams is seen as the favorite for GM.

Waiting for Seahawks season to conclude out of respect.

— Chad Forbes (@NFLDraftBites) January 15, 2026

The Falcons announced Williams interviewed for the president of football position on Jan. 9.

So, what happens if the Bears want to promote King to assistant general manager and Cunningham does not leave?

Chicago will have a decision to make on whether to keep Cunningham or potentially move on from an assistant general manager that has been connected to multiple general manager openings in recent seasons.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears are working overtime to help assistant general manager Ian Cunningham find a new job in the league.

More News: Bears’ Caleb Williams sends fierce message after beating Packers

On Friday, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported Bears general manager Ryan Poles was working with his former Boston College teammate, Matt Ryan, to help the Atlanta Falcons during their hiring process. Cunningham is a candidate for the general manager gig with the Falcons.

On Saturday, the Falcons hired Ryan as their new president of football.

Per Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, Ryan will be considered the primary football executive for the Falcons. Atlanta’s next general manager will have control of the draft and the roster, though Ryan will get the final say over decisions.

Essentially, the Falcons’ new general manager position is the equivalent of a typical assistant general manager, meaning it would be a lateral move for Cunningham to take the job with Atlanta.

Chicago Bears HC Ben Johnson wouldn’t be unhappy with move

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Because it would be a lateral move for Cunningham, the Bears are not expected to gain two third-round compensatory picks if Atlanta hires him.

Why would the Bears help to try and offload Cunningham, someone who is considered a rising star in the league, to the Falcons knowing they would receive nothing in return for the assistant general manager?

A source indicated to ChiCitySports that head coach Ben Johnson wouldn’t be unhappy if Cunningham took the Falcons’ job.

In September, Tyler Dunne of Go Long wrote about some of the dynamics between Poles and Cunningham in the front office. A source suggested Cunningham was well suited to cover for Poles’ deficiencies and was thought to be a better voice in the front office than the general manager.

Cunningham would “challenge” scouts and Poles during his early time in Chicago, but his “voice” had faded in 2025.

But maybe not enough to everyone’s liking at Halas Hall.

The role in Atlanta might be better for Cunningham. Ryan, who didn’t become the president of football with a scouting background, needs a general manager who can help evaluate talent. Cunningham has been noted by Jones and Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer as a top future general manager candidate.

Football insider and former NFL agent Ben Dogra explained to ChiCitySports why the league wouldn’t give the Bears compensatory picks if Cunningham took the Falcons general manager job.

“He’s really not acting in a GM capacity,” Dogra said of what Cunningham’s role would be with the Falcons. “That belongs to Matt Ryan, because he has final say in football matters. So if that’s the case, the league probably frowns upon the fact ‘We don’t want to guy have a GM title, but he doesn’t have the authority of a GM over the 53-man roster.'”

“So if that’s the case, the league doesn’t want to provide compensatory picks for something that they deem to be less than a GM with the full power.”

But right now, the Falcons are the only team with a general manager job open for Cunningham, and it’s a step up from his role in Chicago and will likely come with a fair pay raise.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears are set to finish the regular season against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field on Sunday.

More News: Bears set to lose key player before playoffs to nasty injury

With a win, the Bears will clinch the No. 2 seed in the NFC and would host the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round. If the Philadelphia Eagles win and Chicago loses, the Bears would host either the San Francisco 49ers or Los Angeles next weekend.

The Bears have been a surprise success under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, winning the NFC North for the first time since 2018. This will be the first season Chicago has made the playoffs (or had a winning season) under general manager Ryan Poles.

The Chicago Bears front office could soon change

More News: Lions could be plotting big-time revenge on Ben Johnson

However, the Bears could soon see a shakeup in the front office this season.

Per Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, assistant general manager Ian Cunningham will get serious consideration for a GM job this hiring cycle.

“No matter how many open GM gigs there are this cycle, a name you are likely to hear is Chicago Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham,” Jones wrote.

Cunningham has been an asset for Poles, especially in keeping him grounded and sober. He kept the general manager from paying too high a price to trade up for wide receiver Rome Odunze in the 2024 draft.

Jones suggested Cunningham has been helpful in modernizing scouting techniques for Chicago.

“And since 2022 he has been at the right hand of Ryan Poles rebuilding the Chicago Bears into the potential Super Bowl contender,” Jones wrote. “So he’s seen old- and new-school approaches to scouting and team building. He’s been instrumental introducing new technologies and processes in Chicago.

“Cunningham has played, scouted colleges and pros, been part of a major draft trade, evaluated a No. 1 quarterback, been part of a head-coaching search, won Super Bowls and led turnarounds. Cunningham has checked just about every box you can for a potential first-time GM. We’ll see if this is finally his year.”

Losing Cunningham would be a serious blow for the Bears before the draft. With Caleb Williams set to enter his third season under a rookie contract, Chicago has a two-year Super Bowl window upcoming.

This next draft will be key for the Bears if they want to build a dynasty.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks

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The Chicago Bears have completely done a 180 this season compared to previous years, thanks to savvy front office decisions. There are a lot of people who are involved in getting a decision to be made before it lands on general manager Ryan Poles’ desk, and one of the key contributors could be gone this offseason. Let’s take a closer look at who it is and which team could poach him for a bigger role.

The Chicago Bears assistant general manager could become the Atlanta Falcons general manager

While discussing what he has been hearing regarding the NFL heading into Week 18, NFL insider Albert Breer discussed how the Bears could be seeing the Falcons take one of their top front office personnel this offseason.

“But the winning streak will likely help coach Raheem Morris, in his second year, more than GM Terry Fontenot, who’s in his fifth year (Atlanta last made the playoffs in 2018). If there’s a GM change, Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham would be a name to watch, given the close relationship between [Matt] Ryan and Chicago GM Ryan Poles, who was a lineman for the quarterback at Boston College 20 years ago.”

Cunningham has been with the Bears since 2022 as the team’s assistant general manager, but has been climbing up the NFL front office ranks since his playing days in 2008. He is one of seven people that Chicago has on the team’s directory under player personnel, so this would obviously be a massive change in the front office if this were to happen. However, this is also not set in stone as things can change and even Fontenot could keep his job. Cunningham has had multiple interviews for general manager positions in the last few offseasons, but has yet to get that role.

It would be intriguing to see Cunningham in a general manager position and what that means going forward. In terms of Chicago, they would need to figure out a new assistant general manager, but it would make any potential trades between the Falcons and the Bears easier with the relationship being there.

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The NFL Draft is mere hours away, as rumors and mock draft reach a fever pitch with what the Chicago Bears could potentially do with the tenth overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. Over the past few days there have been significant rumors that believe that general manager Ryan Poles could be intent on trading up in the first round to ensure that the Bears are able to select running back Ashton Jeanty from Boise State. Although there might be a desire to move up, it is actually in Poles’ best interest to avoid trading assets, especially for a running back, with the remaining roster needs that Chicago currently has.

Ryan Poles can’t afford to be all in on Ashon Jeanty and sacrifice other positions of need

Several NFL insiders, including Pat Leonard and Simon Charles, have linked the Bears to potentially trading up depending on how the draft breaks out through the first five selections. Both pundits believe that Poles and Chicago is keen on taking Jeanty if they trade up from the tenth spot. Given the slew of high-talent prospects available within the first ten selections of the draft, Ryan Poles needs to invoke restraint if he has a desire to move up.

The issue if Poles trades up in the first round is the additional resources the Bears will lose to move up in a draft that is very deep at the running back position. Depending on who a potential trade would be struck with, it could cost Chicago either one of their two second round selections or a third-round selection. Although Chicago is in need of a running back for new head coach Ben Johnson’s run-first offense, Ryan Poles isn’t in a position to spend multiple picks on just one player.

Chicago is in a unique position of having three selections in the top 41 picks of the 2025 NFL Draft and have several positions of need, including defensive end, offensive tackle, tight end, and safety. Given the deep depth of prospects at the defensive end, defensive tackle, and running back position, Ryan Poles can address several needs within the first two rounds of the draft. However, there could be a position left unaddressed if Poles believes that Jeanty is too good to miss out on, even with the deep class of running backs.

Furthermore, with how the 2025 NFL Draft is projected to shake out, the Bears could be in a situation where they can take the best player available at a specific position, whether be Mason Graham, Tyler Warren, or Will Campbell. There is also a chance that Jeanty is there for Poles and the Bears at ten depending on if the draft unfolds a certain way where Graham and Warren are off the board. With multiple mock drafts from several prominent NFL analysts, the consensus belief for the Bears is that there will be an elite-talent there for the team if they stay at the tenth spot.

If Poles doesn’t trade up and Jeanty is off the board before the tenth pick, the Bears still have a chance to grab a potential day-one starter at ten and another with the 39th selection in the second round. Ryan Poles only gets one starter if Chicago trades up and loses their second-round pick in a trade up with another team. There is also a scenario where the team walks out taking Jeanty at ten and then another quality player such as Nic Scourton or Derrick Harmon in the second round without a potential trade up.

Ryan Poles must refrain from giving into fear of missing out on Jeanty, especially with how he has been fearful of missing out on a specific talent in prior drafts. Last year, Ian Cunningham had to talk Poles out of trading up a few spots to take wide receiver Rome Odunze, who the Bears were able to draft ninth overall after holding off on potentially trading up. Other teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars and New England Patriots could force the Bears to give up more than they could potentially want to, knowing how the general manager has shown desperation in previous drafts.

Running back depth in the draft gives Ryan Poles immense flexibility to save or acquire more draft assets

Another aspect that Poles needs to consider when potentially trading up to take Jeanty is the small drop off from the Boise State back to other running backs expected to be taken in the first and second round. Ball-carrying prospects, including TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins, Kaleb Johnson, and Omarion Hampton are all expected to be drafted before the third round. Furthermore, all of the running back listed are seen as a potential difference-makers with a few being seen as good as Jeanty.

Imagine a scenario where Poles and the Bears stays at ten to select either Graham or Warren and then are able to take either Henderson or Johnson, who are seen as potential starting caliber running backs. This would enable Chicago to address multiple positions of need because Ryan Poles refrained from trading up to get a ball-carrier that costs the team multiple picks. Not trading up would also keep the Bears from losing valuable mid-to-late round selections over the next two years would protect the team from not being able to address an offensive line that could potentially need another overhaul by 2027.

The depth at running back gives Poles and Chicago leverage not only to stay at ten but also gives the team the opportunity to trade back if there is another team wanting to move up to ten. There could be a situation where a team like the Colts want to trade up to take a tight end or the Steelers wanting to move up to take a quarterback, which would allow the Bears to move back and add selections in later rounds. Adding another second round or third round selection should be an option for Ryan Poles if the draft plays out to where if a prospect they like projects to fall a few spots.

The one certainty for the Chicago Bears leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft is that there will be a plethora of players available at multiple positions regardless of if they trade up or not. Ryan Poles cannot afford to sacrifice addressing one or two positions solely to address the running back position by trading up to take Jeanty. Poles is in a rare position to take three prospects within the first two rounds of the draft which is a rarity and something a franchise gets to do once in a generation and is something lost if a trade up takes place.

The post Ryan Poles must avoid overreaching and trading up for this player appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The Chicago Bears entered the offseason hiring cycle with hopes they could boost their draft capital for April. Unfortunately for the Bears, the team lost out on what would have been a golden opportunity to beef up the trenches on Day 2.

The offensive and defensive lines need to be addressed in free agency and the draft. The Bears have four selections in the first 72 picks in the 2025 draft, but an extra third-round pick could have allowed general manager Ryan Poles more flexibility in April.

Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham was a finalist for the GM job with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Chicago would have stood to gain two compensatory picks in the third round if Cunningham had taken the Jaguars job. One pick would have been for 2025, the other would have been added for 2026.

The Chicago Bears lost out on two third-round picks

Per Ari Meirov of the 33rd Team, the Jaguars chose Los Angeles Rams director of scouting, James Gladstone, as their next GM.

The #Jaguars have hired #Rams Director of Scouting James Gladstone as their new GM. A darkhorse candidate lands the gig. pic.twitter.com/tKVEAPfkR0

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 21, 2025

Cunningham is staying in Chicago, and the third-round compensatory picks will not be going to the Bears this offseason.

The Bears have eight picks scheduled for 2025:

• No. 10
• No. 39 (Panthers)
• No. 41
• No. 72
• fifth round
• sixth round (Steelers)
• seventh round (Browns)
• seventh (Bengals)

While the Bears aren’t completely out of luck by retaining Cunningham, their draft capital isn’t what it could have been if the Jaguars had hired the rising executive.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks.

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The Chicago Bears already have an extra second-round pick in the NFL Draft due to their Bryce Young trade with the Carolina Panthers. However, the Bears can earn an extra third-rounder depending on how the Jacksonville Jaguars’ general manager search plays out.

Current Chicago assistant general manager Ian Cunningham is a finalist for the Jacksonville GM role. If he were to get hired, the Bears would receive a compensatory third-round draft pick in 2025 and 2026 due to the Rooney Rule. The Jaguars are planning to hire a GM before the NFL Draft, via John Shipley of Sports Illustrated. So, the Bears will know if their draft plans are altered sooner rather than later.

Cunningham is one of five finalists for the job, joined by Jon Eric-Sullivan of the Green Bay Packers, Josh Williams of the San Francisco 49ers, James Gladstone of the Los Angeles Rams and current Jaguars interim GM Ethan Waugh, via Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. So it isn’t a guarantee that Cunningham leaves Chicago for Jacksonville. However, the fact he is still in the hunt is significant.

Ian Cunningham’s run with the Chicago Bears 

The assistant general manager has been with the Bears since 2022, joining forces with Ryan Poles. He has been coveted by teams around the league ever since. Cunningham was a finalist for the Washington Commanders GM job before it went to Adam Peters. He actually turned down the same role with the Arizona Cardinals before Monti Ossenfort was hired.

Clearly, the Bears and almost everyone around the league know what Cunningham brings to the table. The Jaguars are trying to reshape their vision under Liam Coen, and a mind like Cunningham’s might be the perfect fit. If he does end up leaving, it’d be a major blow to Chicago’s front office.

Chicago Bears preparing for 2025 NFL Draft

But there would be a silver lining. Not only would the Bears get two third-round picks, but there’s a chance their 2025 selection falls within the first 100 picks. Chicago already has four picks within the top 100. Adding another one gives new head coach Ben Johnson and company a grand opportunity to shape the roster in their vision.

The Bears are entering the NFL combine looking to craft the future of their franchise. But another high draft pick at their disposal would alter those plans, for all the good reasons. Chicago certainly wants to keep Cunningham in their front office, but with so much interest over the years, a promotion almost seems inevitable. At least if it were to happen entering 2025, the Chicago Bears would be compensated.

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This offseason can be taken in multiple different directions for the Chicago Bears front office based on the needs of the current roster. The hiring of Ben Johnson marks the beginning of a new era in the Windy City and it’s one that fans are hoping will last a long time. Having an offensive guru in Chicago of Johnson’s caliber is something that the organization has never had before, so things could get exciting quickly.

Some key roster decisions need to be made by Ryan Poles and Ian Cunningham in free agency next month to set the stage for the draft in April. The big positions of emphasis for the Bears to address this offseason are in the trenches. The organization will need to bring in three new offensive linemen to pair with tackles Braxton Jones and Darnell Wright.

Also on the offensive side of the ball, the third receiver in Johnson’s offense will have to be determined with a potential addition in the backfield coming too. Snagging a consistent edge rusher to pair with Montez Sweat is arguably the second most important thing the Bears need to do in the next two months. They haven’t gotten much pressure on the quarterback over the past two seasons and that will have to change in Dennis Allen’s scheme.

Two players from the 2024 squad have the ability to be franchise-tagged by the Bears front office this offseason. While they both were heavily involved in last season’s plan, it would be hard to imagine them staying around for 2025.

Keenan Allen is the only Chicago Bear eligible

Allen’s time with the Bears in 2024 was his lone season with the organization. Despite having some minor drop issues, he proved to be a reliable target for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams to go to more often than not. Despite meeting the veteran status, Teven Jenkins will not be eligible due to time missed last year. He was a second-round draft pick of the franchise in 2021.

Originally a tackle, the Bears kicked Jenkins inside to play guard in order to establish consistency on the line. ESPN’s Courtney Cronin doesn’t believe that either veteran will be retained by the Bears after the team used their tag a year ago.

“The Bears used the franchise tag in 2024 as a placeholder on cornerback Jaylon Johnson to excute a long-term deal just two days later,” Cronin wrote. “Chicago’s top two pending free agents – receiver Keenan Allen and guard Teven Jenkins – wouldn’t qualify for the tag for a number of reasons. Allen will be 33 this season, and Jenkins missed 23 games over four seasons because of injury. It’s more likely the Bears let both players walk and find their replacements in free agency or the draft.”

Lucky for the Chicago Bears front office, they have all of the resources possible to get those replacements lined up. The team holds three draft picks inside the first two rounds and has nearly $70 million in available cap space to work with before cutting any players off the current roster.

The Chicago Bears can replace these two in the coming months

In free agency, the Chicago Bears could look at two Chiefs to replace Allen and Jenkins. Trey Smith is the most sought-after offensive lineman in the open market this offseason. He won’t come cheap, but he would be well worth the investment to shore up the interior line for a team that desperately needs help on the inside.

At the receiver position, Hollywood Brown perfectly fits the mold for this new-look Chicago Bears offense. Johnson likes quick and shifty weapons, and Brown is just that. He is coming off an injury-riddled 2024 season, so he would be a short-term cheap option that is well within the Bears’ price range.

The post Chicago Bears should hold off on using franchise tag appeared first on ChiCitySports.

Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham has interviewed for many job openings in the past few off-seasons. Cunningham has previously interviewed with the Washington Commanders and Tennesee Titans. He also declined an offer to become the general manager for the Arizona Cardinals in 2023 as well.

Cunningham has been with the Bears since the 2022 season and has been a valuable part of the Bears front office. He has been a top candidate for a couple of general manager positions this off-season, and it now looks like there is a chance he could be leaving the Bears soon.

The Chicago Bears assistant GM will be getting a second interview with an AFC team

NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero has revealed that the Bears assistant GM will be getting a second interview with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

“The #Jaguars are lining up in-person second interviews for their GM job next week, with #Packers VP of Player Personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan and #Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham among others on the list, per sources. Interim GM Ethan Waugh also is expected to interview next week.”

The #Jaguars are lining up in-person second interviews for their GM job next week, with #Packers VP of Player Personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan and #Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham among others on the list, per sources.

Interim GM Ethan Waugh also is expected to interview next week.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 15, 2025

The Chicago Bears would be rewarded if Cunningham is hired

If Cunningham gets hired by the Jaguars, a nice reward would be given to Ryan Poles. The Bears would be given two third-round draft picks: one for the 2025 NFL draft and one for the 2026 NFL draft. Having these extra picks would provide more flexibility for the Bears front office.

The Bears could potentially use one of these picks for a trade-up or trade-down scenario or could even use one of these picks to trade for a player as well. This provides Chicago with another resource to improve its football team. Poles could possibly end up with five draft selections within the first three rounds of the 2025 draft, this would be very valuable for the off-season.

There are some significant positions the Chicago Bears need to upgrade at, specifically guard and edge rusher. With how deep the 2025 draft class is, Poles could definitely find a gem with an extra third-round pick.

Even though the Bears could lose a valuable member of this front office, it could still lead to a great reward that would help improve the team for the upcoming season.

The post Chicago Bears assistant general manager deemed a finalist for Jaguars general manager appeared first on ChiCitySports.

The NFL offseason is fully underway after Super Bowl 59 finished with the Philadelphia Eagles defeating the Kanas City Chiefs by a score of 40-20. Although the Chicago Bears have begun the first part of their vastly important offseason with general manager Ryan Poles hiring Ben Johnson and his coaching staff, the franchise is still waiting on finalization if one of their front office executives will be getting hired by the Jacksonville Jaguars. If assistant general manager Ian Cunningham is hired by the Jaguars to fill their vacant general manager position, Chicago would be rewarded with two third round draft picks, providing immense draft flexibility.

Ryan Poles would receive immense draft flexibility if Ian Cunningham is hired by the Jacksonville Jaguars

Cunningham is to interview with the Jaguars on Friday, and if they decide to hire him, Chicago would be rewarded with the comp selections due to the NFL’s diversity initiative that rewards teams that helps minority candidates get hired to executive roles. He has been with the Bears since in the assistant general manager role since 2022 when he was hired from the Philadelphia Eagles. Cunningham has been seen as Ryan Poles’ right hand man when it comes to roster decisions and draft scouting since Poles was hired in 2022.

If Cunningham is hired and the Bears do obtain an additional third round selection for both the 2025 and 2026 NFL Drafts, Poles and Johnson will be given an immense resource when it comes to improving Chicago’s roster over the next two seasons. Chicago will have four selections in the third rounds, which will either allow Poles to draft more talent or trade for quality veteran talent due to the extra selections. Ryan Poles has the potential to have five selections in the first three rounds of this year’s draft, which is vital given the multiple needs at multiple positions on the roster.

From a standpoint of utilizing the extra selections to draft collegiate talent, Poles and the front office are blessed to have additional picks in a draft that has quality talent in the mid rounds. Having one more selection in the third round allows for flexibility if Ryan Poles and his staff are torn between two players where they could gamble and take one player while hoping to select the other a few picks later. Imagine a scenario where Chicago’s front office is torn between Iowa running back Kaleb Johnson and Illinois wide receiver Pat Bryant, but has a chance to take both because of the added selection

The potential of the added selection to create four selections across the second and third round of the 2025 NFL Draft allows Poles to trade up or down with ease in those rounds. If there is a player that Chicago sees as can’t miss in the later part of the second round, they can trade both their third-round picks to obtain a third second rounder. Additionally, Ryan Poles could trade one of his two second round selection for picks in future drafts, knowing his team still can operate with multiple choices before the fourth round.

Having four selections in the third round over the next two years also give Poles immense ammunition to add proven veteran talent via trade and still have draft stock to work with to obtain rookie talent. Chicago could package multiple of their selection to go after an available defensive end such as Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby or Trey Hendrickson. Furthermore, the potential of two selections allows Ryan Poles to go after a potential talent that would be even costlier, such as wide receiver Deebo Samuel or running back Jonathan Taylor.

Ryan Poles’ front office staff would be improved with the potential of additional third round selections

If Cunningham ends up going to Jacksonville and Chicago does receive the additional third round selections, it will put additional pressure for Poles and Johnson to find quality talent, whether collegian or pro, immediately. Having two additionally second day selections in the draft over the next two years, would allow for quick on field success in either 2025, or by 2026, depending on how the picks are utilized. If gifted the massive compensation, Ryan Poles can ill afford to misfire on potential selections or a trade with the resources.

The gifted resources, if Cunningham is hired as a general manager by Jacksonville, also allows for the Bears to hire a proven executive to fill the assistant general manager role. Ryan Poles could benefit from adding a veteran talent evaluator with proven success over the past decade, as proven experience has been missing from his front office staff over the past three seasons. With the immense offseason resources, including massive salary cap space, nine potential selections, and an upcoming quarterback talent in Caleb Williams, Poles should be able to find that seasoned executive with ease.

Having the additional selections would allow for Poles to prove himself as a qualified general manager, who deserves to be extended on a long-term basis. During this past offseason, Poles was criticized immensely for his inconsistency when it comes to finding talent via the draft. Through three seasons, Chicago’s general manager has failed to draft a player that went on to be named to a Pro Bowl or as an All-Pro, something his predecessor Ryan Poles achieved during the first three years of his tenure.

Whether Chicago gets two additional third round selections over the next two years will hinge on what transpires with Cunningham’s interview on Friday with the Jaguars. If Chicago’s assistant general manager is hired, Ryan Poles will have put the franchise in a position to have a very successful offseason before Ben Johnson’s first season as new head coach. With potentially four Day two selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, Poles will have put Chicago in a very favorable draft position for the second consecutive offseason, something that is extremely difficult to achieve.

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The annual Reese’s Senior Bowl began in Mobile, AL on Tuesday, and the Chicago Bears were notably around plenty in the second day of practices. The game itself will be played on Saturday, but these drill days gives teams the chance to see prospects up close to key in on their fundamentals.

With Chicago entering the draft holding three picks in the first two rounds, events like the Senior Bowl are crucial toward the teams’ future. The primary needs for the Bears this offseason lie in the trenches. With Darnell Wright and Braxton Jones expected to be the only starters to return from 2024, a combination of the draft and free agency will have to fix the unit before this upcoming season.

Ryan Poles and Ian Cunningham appear to be keeping a tight eye on the trenches in the early going down in Mobile. With some notable day two guys making appearances at the Senior Bowl this year, it gives the Bears brass a fantastic opportunity to get an honest look at them for their big board.

The Chicago Bears are dialed in at offensive line at the Senior Bowl

Despite not being around much on day one of the Senior Bowl, Chicago Bears beat writer Nicholas Moreano reported that Poles and Cunningham showed up big time on Wednesday. Cunningham spent a lot of time by the linemen while they were stretching, and Poles was locked in during the one-on-one drills.

A name to help out the Chicago Bears on the inside of their line to keep an eye on is Jonah Savaiinaea from the University of Arizona. The big man projects well as a guard in the NFL and is expected to be drafted at some point during the second day of the draft. He measures in with a solid frame at 6’5, 336 pounds and can toss defenders around with ease.

Savaiinaea finished his final season at Arizona with a 75.9 PFF grade while allowing just four sacks. If Chicago can snag him in the second round, he would be a perfect addition to their interior. The organization has been frequently linked to highly coveted free agent Trey Smith from Kansas City, but even if they sign him they will need another guy on the inside moving forward.

Edge should not be a position the Chicago Bears overlook in Mobile

Even though Chicago has a massive need for offensive linemen, their pass rushing unit needs some work as well. Montez Sweat hasn’t had a proper running mate since joining the franchise last season, and that simply has to change ahead of the 2025 campaign.

An early prospect that has made noise at the Senior Bowl as an edge rusher is Mike Green from Marshall. Green has dominated the one-on-one drills against some high quality offensive linemen, asserting himself into the conversation of being a fringe first-round draft choice.

These one-on-one drills are the same ones that Poles spent a fair amount of time watching on Wednesday, so it would have been hard for him to not notice Green. In 2024, Williamsburg, VA native finished with 17 sacks, 13.5 more than he had in his first year at Marshall after transferring from Virginia. The numbers and tape speak for themselves on Green, and the Chicago Bears might have to jump on the opportunity to draft him if he is there for them in the second round.

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Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham has completed a virtual interview with the Tennessee Titans for their vacant general manager position. The Titans confirmed this with an announcement on X this morning.

We have completed a first-round virtual interview for general manager with Ian Cunningham, Assistant General Manager for the Chicago Bears

— Tennessee Titans (@Titans) January 12, 2025

Cunningham has been the assistant general manager for the Bears since the 2022 season and previously was with the Philadelphia Eagles from 2017 to 2021. The Titans currently hold the first overall pick in this years NFL draft after finishing the season with a 3-14 record.

Over the past couple seasons, Cunningham has been interviewed by other NFL teams for front office positions. Back in 2023, Cunningham turned down an offer from the Arizona Cardinals to become their general manager and decided to stay with the Bears instead. Cunningham has interviewed with the Titans in the past two seasons and was also a finalist in 2024 for the Washington Commanders job.

This is a huge opportunity for Cunningham due to the Titans holding the first pick in the 2025 NFL draft. Cunningham will have the opportunity to potentially give the Titans a potential franchise quarterback by drafting either Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward, or draft a game changing player such as Heisman winner Travis Hunter.

In the last three offseasons, multiple NFL teams have consistently shown interest in the Bears assistant GM and this might be the year he gets a GM job. If Cunningham does decide to leave Chicago, there are some positives about it for Ryan Poles and the Bears front office.

The Chicago Bears could end up getting a huge reward if Cunningham is hired by the Titans

If the Titans do hire Cunningham, the Bears would be rewarded by the NFL with two third-round draft picks. One pick would be for the 2025 draft and the other would be for the 2026 draft. Having an extra third round pick would be a huge help for the Bears in this very crucial offseason.

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Chicago Bears Assistant General Manager Ian Cunningham could be up for a GM gig this offseason, which could benefit the team for the 2025 draft

This is not the first time Chicago Bears fans have heard the idea of Ian Cunningham spreading his wings and landing a general manager job elsewhere. It was believed that there was a decent chance that he would be plucked by another organization last year, but him choosing to stay in the Windy City leaves many reasons to believe that his time to depart could be coming.

Albert Breer had further thoughts on Cunningham’s future following the conclusion of the 2024-25 season and that there could be a tie between him and the Indianapolis Colts. It’s unknown whether the Colts will keep around current general manager Chris Ballard beyond this year, and Cunningham has a connection to some of the key figures in that organization.

“Do they (the Colts) look at Shane Steichen and say ‘ok, you can bring in your own guy,’ Breer says. “Do you bring in someone like Ian Cunningham from Chicago who you were with in Philadelphia?”

Connections are everywhere throughout the NFL. Reports surfaced this week that the Chicago Bears front office will be doing their research on potential head coaching candidate Brian Flores from the Minnesota Vikings. Flores has his own connections to the Bears due to his time playing college football with Ryan Poles and CEO Kevin Warren’s ties to Minnesota after spending time in the organization.

Whether it’s in coaching or management, having a tie somewhere is always a good first impression to try and advance a career in the NFL. Cunningham could very well have that opportunity presented to him if the Colts come calling.

If Cunningham does leave the Chicago Bears after this season, the team will receive a compensation draft selection for his departure. The estimated compensation at the moment would be two third-round picks, one in 2025 and the other in 2026. This would give the franchise nine draft choices in April, and five in the first three rounds.

Why adding another day two draft selection would be huge for the Chicago Bears

With the Chicago Bears needing to repair both sides of the line this offseason, the front office certainly won’t hate having more throws at the dart board via the draft. Unfortunately, Ryan Poles and the rest of the management team won’t have Cunningham with them to make these key decisions on who to select in the draft and who to target in free agency. There is something to say that if Cunningham has to leave the franchise, it’s good to know the Bears will not be left totally empty-handed.

Names like Kelvin Banks Jr. and Will Campbell have been floated around as potential draft targets for the Chicago Bears with their first-round draft choice in 2025. However, Poles and friends will need to do more than just nail the top pick they have to come out of the draft feeling successful.

Depth is extremely important in the NFL and starters can be found all over the place in the first two days of any draft. With extra ammo in day two for the next couple of drafts due to Cunningham leaving for greener pastures, it gives the Chicago Bears a chance to get just a little bit stronger on the field.

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Ian Cunningham labeled top future GM in a survey of NFL agents

General manager Ryan Poles has been the instrument of success for the Chicago Bears. However, according to a survey of 31 anonymous NFL agents, Poles isn’t the only person in Bears management the league is watching. Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham is on many people’s radar for future job openings.

Agents speak highly of Cunningham

The Athletic recently surveyed 31 anonymous NFL agents to gather data on trending topics around the NFL. The survey asked agents who in the NFL is a “future general manager to watch”? Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham received positive reviews as the top pick in the category.

Here are a couple of quotes that the Athletic collected about Ian Cunningham:

“Ian Cunningham is a great talent evaluator,” an anonymous agent told The Athletic. “He’s fair with agents, not rigid. He comes off like he’s one of us, not some snob. Has an excellent demeanor for the top job.”

One agent pointed out Cunningham’s cool head as one of his biggest strengths. The agent also pointed out that Cunningham likes to bring in new and fresh perspectives, in order to create a well rounded staff.

“Cunningham is so level-headed that he finds young evaluators and thinkers to build up his staff,” another agent said.

Cunningham has interviewed for general manager positions with the Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans and Los Angeles Chargers in the past two years. He has yet to secure a general manager position. But he may be given the keys to a franchise sooner than later.

Cunningham told The Athletic that he proud of what he has been able to achieve with the Bears. He also made sure to point out that his work isn’t done. His ultimate goal of being a general manager of an NFL team has yet to be realized.

“It feels great in the sense that this is what I’ve worked for my entire life and career,” Cunningham told The Athletic. “Knowing what I’ve wanted to do since I was in middle school, high school and setting that goal for myself. … Realizing I’m on the cusp of that, I’m extremely fortunate to have the interviews in which I’ve had and the opportunities in which I’ve had. I just view it as just keep chopping, and it’ll happen in the right time.”

Ian Cunningham later said that he believes that the Bears are building a championship culture in Chicago.

“I feel like we’re on the right track to building a championship culture here,” Cunningham said.

Cunningham has been mentored by some of the best GM’s in today’s NFL including Eric DeCosta and Howie Roseman. Both of whom Cunningham says are in his top five best general managers in the league.

If you want to get to know more about Ian Cunningham and his journey through the NFL a video interview is provided below.

"NFL Spotlight" with #Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham.

Timestamps:
(0:25) Intro
(2:19) START OF IAN CUNNINGHAM INTERVIEW
(3:25) Dad being a basketball agent.
(6:20) Going from player to working with Ravens
(9:08) Working for Ozzie Newsome
(11:21) Working with Eric… pic.twitter.com/RQsWn3xGKz

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 27, 2024

Takeaways

Cunningham has been impactful during his time with the Bears. Acting as Ryan Poles second in command, Cunningham has had his finger prints on many of Poles biggest moves. Cunningham has more than proved his worth in NFL team management. That combined with his list of notable mentors will surely land Cunningham a GM job in the future. If Cunningham does leave for a GM job after this season, the Bears would receive third-round compensatory draft picks in 2025 and 2026.

Whatever team hires Cunningham will be getting a hardworking, diligent, intelligent and highly motivated individual. Ryan Poles trusted Cunningham enough to help him rebuild the Bears roster. The duo have done an excellent job so far. Only time will tell if their work turns into success on the field. But on paper, Cunningham has helped create a positive outlook for the Bears for the first time since 2018.

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There are several players the Chicago Bears would be willing to take at the number nine pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. There’s one they covet, though. Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham met with reporters on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the draft.

The Chicago Bears like 6-8 players at 9

Cunningham said the Bears don’t assign round grades to prospects, but the team has 6-8 players in mind to take at the number nine position.

There are 6-8 players the #Bears feel comfortable with at No. 9 overall, per #Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham.

— Adam Hoge (@AdamHoge) April 25, 2023

Cunningham spoke about one prospect that has recently been getting a lot of attention in Chicago: Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. According to Kevin Fishbain with The Athletic, Cunningham said the Bears “covet” Carter’s skills as a defensive playmaker:

“He’s one of those players that you covet in terms of being one of the better defensive tackles in this draft.”

Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham on Jalen Carter: "He's one of those players that you covet in terms of being one of the better defensive tackles in this draft."

Referenced the 2021 Georgia national championship team and how often "88" showed up on tape on a stacked D-line.

— Kevin Fishbain (@kfishbain) April 25, 2023

Carter has had a few issues this offseason that have allegedly hurt his draft stock. He pleaded no contest to traffic charges in an incident connected to the death of two members of the Georgia football program. A few weeks later, Carter showed up to his Pro Day out of shape. Cunningham said Tuesday that the Bears understood Carter better after meeting with him and that Carter would fit in head coach Matt Eberflus H.I.T.S. philosophy.

“The more time you spent around him the more you realized that he’s a good player, but you get to know him [as a person],” Cunningham said.

#Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham danced around some Jalen Carter questions.

"The more time you spent around him the more you realized that he's a good player, but you get to know him [as a person]," Cunningham said.

— Sean Hammond (@sean_hammond) April 25, 2023

"Jalen is a really good player. There is no denying it." — Ian Cunningham on Jalen Carter and how he would fit in Matt Eberflus' "HITS" principle

Cunningham also said he is active, physical on the field and he personally views him as a "HITS" principle guy.

— Nicholas Moreano (@NicholasMoreano) April 25, 2023

There’s a good chance Carter won’t be on the draft board by the time the Bears pick. But if he’s available, it seems like general manager Ryan Poles might gift Eberflus his three-tech.

For More Chicago Sports:

Follow me on Twitter at @JordanSig, and follow us @ChiCitySports23. You can also reach out to Jordan Sigler via email at jordanmsigler@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Chicago sports, click here! Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks.

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Ian Cunningham has strong opinion on potentially drafting running back in top ten

The NFL Draft is just two days away. Pretty crazy considering all of the hype and buzz around this year’s class, as this may be one of the more anticipated drafts for Chicago Bears fans in recent memory. With a ton of picks and potential to add more, Ryan Poles and this organization are looking to cement a solid foundation for years to come.

They’ve made it abundantly clear that they want to build around third year QB Justin Fields, and in order to do that they’ll need to build the trenches. They’ve addressed the wide receiver issue with the DJ Moore trade and have solidified the line to an extent. One other need is that of running back.

Today, Chicago Bears Assistant GM Ian Cunningham addressed the media and answered a plethora of questions about the draft and free agency. This was he reaction when asked about drafting a running back in the top ten.

Ian Cunningham asked if a running back can be worth a top 10 pick in the modern NFL.

"Yeah, I think it's worth it."

— Josh Schrock (@Schrock_And_Awe) April 25, 2023

Could it be a smokescreen? Possibly.

Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it. Even for a prospect like Bijan Robinson, who is likely to be the first running back selected on Thursday night. He’s been linked to the Chicago Bears multiple times so it wouldn’t be surprising in the least. After the departure of David Montgomery, the RB room is slim.

I’d like the Bears to target a mid-round guy who can provide the same amount of spark that Robinson could. There are 3 potential fits that I think could be perfect, and I’ll link the article I wrote about them here.

What will happen on Thursday is still very unpredictable, no matter what these guys say.

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Chicago Bears executive Ian Cunningham is already on the radar as a general manager candidate

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles and his staff have a big offseason ahead of them as they clinched the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL draft and have a lot of cap space to work with.

With Justin Fields hopefully being the solution at quarterback, the Bears can look to build around him and turn this thing around. But Poles may have to build this roster without his right hand man — Ian Cunningham.

According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the Tennessee Titans have put in a request to interview Cunningham for their general manager opening:

Two more for the #Titans GM opening: Sources say they've requested to interview Glenn Cook of the #Browns and Ian Cunningham of the #Bears, two rising young executives. They'll also speak with top in-house candidates Ryan Cowden and Monti Ossenfort.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 9, 2023

They will also interview Glen Cook of the Cleveland Browns.

Cunningham was brought to Chicago by Poles as an assistant general manager, as the two have developed a close friendship. Eventually Cunningham will get a job as a general manager, as it seems VERY likely it will be sooner or later.

The other thing to note is that the Bears will NOT receive a draft pick if Cunningham is hired this offseason by a team. League rules state he must be with an organization for a minimum of TWO years to qualify for draft compensation if hired.

This wont be the only interview Cunningham gets, either.

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The Chicago Bears had one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL, but the evidence now says the Bears have a far better unit than a few months ago.

There’s little doubt that fans and analysts of the Chicago Bears have little patience in the Bears fixing their offensive line problems.

However, the Bears are moving in the correct direction with the players they have added to the roster, and it shouldn’t be a surprise that there are subtle signs that the Bears will be a lot better off this year than they were last year, on the offensive line.

New GM Ryan Poles came from the Kansas City Chiefs and his assistant GM Ian Cunningham came from the Philadelphia Eagles and they wasted no time in bringing in young talent along the offensive line by making trades and adding more picks.  Both the Eagles and the Chiefs have two of the top offensive lines in the NFL heading into the 2022 season.  

The Eagles Back up O-Line is better than half the NFL teams starting O-Line. #Eagles #FlyEaglesfly

— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) August 21, 2022

Why is the Bears’ offensive line already better than it was the day after the NFL Draft? Cunningham and Poles added quality depth in the draft.  Three players are/were already performing above expectations in training camp.  Fifth-round draft pick Braxton Jones has the starting left tackle position locked up and is likely going to turn into the long-term starter.  To find your starting left tackle in the fifth round is a rare gem. Most left tackles are found within the first round of the NFL Draft but Poles may have found one of the top steals of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Seventh-round draft pick Ja’Tyre Carter has been primarily running with the second team at right guard and earning the praise of radio analyst and former Bears right guard Tom Thayer. Carter is in a position to make the 53-man roster as a seventh-round pick. Doug Kramer before his unfortunate injury was running with the second team at center in place of Sam Mustipher who was getting the primary reps at right guard.

Three players on the offensive line who already came in and made waves in their first year on the roster.  That’s an important overall development in the health of the Bears’ offensive line.  While it may not seem like much, it’s clear that if the Bears have three guys who could be key cogs in the offensive line over the next few years.

The evidence is there that what the Chiefs and the Eagles put together building up their offensive lines happened under the guidance of the two men who are now in charge of the Bears.  The evidence is also strong that there has been an immediate impact by Poles and Cunningham on the 2022 Chicago Bears’ offensive line.

Consider the health and depth of the overall offensive line, compared to a year ago.  Jones solidifies the left tackle spot, Riley Reiff and Larry Borom are fighting for the starting right tackle/primary backup to both offensive tackle spots.  Both Reiff and Borom have played both left tackle and right tackle with Reiff the veteran who has secured the spot but has also forced Borom to elevate his game in their training camp competition.  Reiff has primarily played left tackle, but a switch to right tackle may resurrect his career to the point that it elevates the Bears’ offensive line.

Teven Jenkins can play both guard and tackle and is competing with Michael Schofield for the guard/back offensive tackle spot on the roster.  Schofield is a starter-level player who could be relegated to a solid backup spot with Jenkins’ emergence.

So, the Bears have young talent in Jenkins, Borom, Jones, Carter, and Kramer that could theoretically all have the potential to start together in the not-too-distant future.  While three of the four may not have to start because of the veterans added to the mix, or if they do start are pushed by veterans who have started who have forced them to get better.

The Chicago Bears offensive line is better than it was a year ago and is also in good hands for the future.  Primarily because the two men piecing it together have a track record of success that has already led to a major difference in one off-season.

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