Chicago Bears fans might be digesting the news about their new stadium location, but there's something to cheer about in the front office. With former assistant GM Ian Cunningham heading to the Atlanta Falcons, the Bears have swiftly filled the void by promoting Jeff King to assistant general manager.
Bears GM Ryan Poles praised King, saying, "Jeff has earned this promotion through his commitment to our team and his excellence within our operation, as well as the positive impact that he has created throughout our organization. We look forward to Jeff's continued leadership and contributions as we work toward building a sustained winner."
King's journey to this role is a testament to perseverance and dedication. A former NFL player with the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals from 2006 to 2012, King transitioned into a scouting intern role after hanging up his cleats. Joining the Bears full-time in 2016, he climbed the ranks to director of pro scouting in 2020, then co-director of player personnel in 2022, and most recently served as senior director of player personnel for the past two years.
Reflecting on his journey, King expressed gratitude: "I'm super lucky. I've been here 12 years.
That doesn't happen. When I walked in here 12 years ago as an intern, I didn't think it would go this far, but I've been very lucky and appreciative of this organization because it is special."
He continued, "I am honored to be able to continue representing the Chicago Bears organization, and I am thankful and appreciative to George H. McCaskey, the McCaskey family, Kevin Warren, and Ryan Poles for their trust and belief in me.
This is a special organization. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to grow and develop here, starting as an intern, and I look forward to continuing to help build our team as we work toward our collective pursuit of sustained excellence."
With the front office now solidified, the Bears are gearing up to tackle the NFL Draft and scout the right free agents, all with an eye on a Super Bowl run in 2026. The pieces are coming together for what could be an exciting chapter in Bears history.