Feb. 3, 2026, 2:55 p.m. ET

The Atlanta Falcons introduced general manager Ian Cunningham in a Tuesday press conference alongside president of football Matt Ryan. Cunningham, the highly regarded former assistant general manager of the Chicago Bears, is eager to begin working for the team that he grew up rooting for.

The Falcons’ new GM laid out his vision for what he wants this team to be in 2026 and beyond.

“We’re going to be smart, tough, physical, physically and mentally tough,” said Cunningham. “That’s a part of the process that we’re going to instill and push with our scouting staff — both college and pro scouting. We’re going to look at those things along the way. That’s what we’re going to be. That’s what we’re going to be built on.”

Ryan also gave a statement on the team’s decision to hire Cunningham as general manager.

“One of the biggest selling points for us on Ian was his experience in all areas on scouting,” stated Ryan. “He has touched it all. And I think for the general manager position an understanding of what those positions go through and what the expectations for them are was very important to us through that process. So we are very excited about the experience that he brings to the Atlanta Falcons.”

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The Falcons interviewed five other candidates before settling on Cunningham. When asked to explain what separated Atlanta’s new GM from the other candidates, Ryan continued to emphasize Cunningham’s experience working in various roles for three successful organizations.

“We were looking for someone in this position that was well-versed in terms of their experience and has touched all the different parts of scouting,” added Ryan. “That was something that was important for us because there’s a lot that falls under Ian’s control. So you want somebody who is comfortable, who understands each individual’s role in his department. So that was something that was really big. Aligned vision on how to build a football team, on what wins games, on the types of players that you want to bring in the building.”

The Falcons fired former GM Terry Fontenot after five playoff-less seasons in Atlanta. Ryan is hoping Cunningham has the formula to get this team back to the postseason.

“We feel very strongly about his vision for us moving forward,” Ryan concluded.