The Atlanta Falcons are turning the page with a new leader in the front office, officially naming Ian Cunningham as their next general manager. The move comes after a methodical search process, and the Falcons believe they’ve found the right architect to help reshape the franchise’s future.
Cunningham arrives in Atlanta after a strong four-year run as assistant GM with the Chicago Bears, where he played a pivotal role in constructing the roster that captured the NFC North crown in 2025. He now steps into the top personnel role in Atlanta, reporting directly to team president of football operations Matt Ryan - yes, that Matt Ryan.
At 38, Cunningham brings with him a résumé that’s already stacked with championship pedigree. He was part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ front office during their historic Super Bowl win in 2017 and has built a reputation as a sharp evaluator of talent with a deep background in both college scouting and player personnel. His NFL journey also includes time with the Baltimore Ravens, where he got his start learning the ropes in one of the league’s most respected front offices.
“It was evident through our rigorous interview process Ian was the right choice,” Ryan said in a statement. “His vision for our team and organization aligned exactly with the type of leader we were seeking to help take the Falcons to the next level.”
That vision is backed up by results. In Chicago, Cunningham helped land key contributors like safety Kevin Byard, pass rusher Montez Sweat, offensive lineman Joe Thuney, and center Drew Dalman - a group that helped power the Bears to a top-six finish in total offense last season. His eye for roster construction and ability to identify impact players on both sides of the ball stood out in a competitive NFC landscape.
But this move isn’t just about football acumen - it’s also personal. Cunningham grew up a Falcons fan in Roswell, Georgia, and now he’s getting the chance to lead the team he once rooted for.
“It’s truly an honor to be the general manager of the Atlanta Falcons, and I couldn’t be more thankful to Arthur Blank, Matt Ryan and the entire search committee for believing in me,” Cunningham said. “As a Falcons fan growing up in Roswell, I can’t wait to help bring that fire and energy back to the city.”
Cunningham takes over for Terry Fontenot, who parted ways with the organization earlier this offseason. With a new front office structure in place and a hometown GM at the helm, the Falcons are clearly signaling a fresh direction - one built on experience, vision, and a deep-rooted connection to the city.