Falcons Complete Second GM Interviews with Cunningham, Liipfert

The Atlanta Falcons have narrowed their search for a new general manager down to two finalists.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:23pm

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The Atlanta Falcons have completed second interviews with Ian Cunningham, the Chicago Bears' assistant general manager, and James Liipfert, the Houston Texans' assistant general manager, for their vacant general manager position. The Falcons fired their previous head coach and general manager after an 8-9 season in 2025, and have been conducting an extensive search for new leadership.

Why it matters

The Falcons' general manager hire will be a critical decision as the team looks to rebuild and return to contention in the NFC South. Both Cunningham and Liipfert have extensive NFL front office experience and could bring fresh perspectives to the organization.

The details

Cunningham, 40, has spent the past four seasons as the assistant general manager for the Chicago Bears after previously working in the front offices of the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens. Liipfert is the current assistant general manager of the Houston Texans, and has also worked in the scouting departments of the New England Patriots and Texans.

  • The Falcons fired head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after an 8-9 season in 2025.
  • Kevin Stefanski was named the new Falcons head coach on January 17, 2026.

The players

Ian Cunningham

The 40-year-old has spent the past four seasons as the assistant general manager for the Chicago Bears, and previously worked in the front offices of the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens.

James Liipfert

The current assistant general manager of the Houston Texans, Liipfert has also worked in the scouting departments of the New England Patriots and Texans.

Raheem Morris

The former Falcons head coach who was fired after the 2025 season.

Terry Fontenot

The former Falcons general manager who was fired after the 2025 season.

Kevin Stefanski

The new Falcons head coach, hired on January 17, 2026.

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What’s next

The Falcons will continue their search process and are expected to make a decision on their new general manager in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The Falcons' search for a new general manager is a critical step in the team's rebuilding efforts, and the selection of either Cunningham or Liipfert could have significant implications for the franchise's future direction.