Flowery Branch, Ga., January 24, 2026
The Atlanta Falcons are actively searching for a new general manager following their eighth consecutive losing season. Recent interviews have been conducted with candidates like Ian Cunningham and Josh Williams, among others. Owner Arthur Blank has initiated an overhaul of the organization, which includes parting ways with head coach Raheem Morris. The franchise aims to foster a new competitive culture and potentially invigorate both the team and the local economy as they pursue a successful turnaround.
Atlanta Falcons Explore New Leadership for General Manager Role
Franchise undergoes changes after eighth consecutive losing season
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons are ramping up their search for a new general manager, with recent interviews conducted with Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham and San Francisco 49ers director of scouting and football operations Josh Williams. This comes on the heels of previous discussions with other candidates, including Houston Texans assistant general manager James Liipfert and Pittsburgh Steelers assistant general manager Andy Weidl. The team’s push for a fresh perspective reflects a proactive approach in fostering a revitalized atmosphere in their football operations.
The Falcons’ quest for strong leadership comes as part of a significant organizational overhaul initiated by team owner Arthur Blank. After a disappointing 8-9 season in 2025—which marked the eighth consecutive losing season for the franchise—Blank took decisive action by parting ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. The team has already hired Kevin Stefanski, former head coach of the Cleveland Browns, to lead the team on the field as they aim for a turnaround.
Meet the Candidates
Ian Cunningham
Ian Cunningham has made history as the Chicago Bears’ first-ever assistant general manager since joining the organization in 2022. With a background that includes five years as a director of college scouting and director of player personnel with the Philadelphia Eagles, Cunningham’s experience extends back to his early career with the Baltimore Ravens, where he began as a personnel assistant and area scout. His broad skill set encompasses both player acquisition and development, crucial for building a competitive roster.
Josh Williams
In contrast, Josh Williams has solidified his role in the San Francisco 49ers organization over 15 seasons, where he started as an assistant in the scouting department in 2011. His career trajectory includes notable positions such as pro personnel scout, area scout, and national scout before becoming the director of scouting and football operations. Williams’s extensive experience suggests a deep understanding of both collegiate and professional talent evaluation, making him a formidable candidate in the current hiring process.
The Organizational Shift
This search for a new general manager highlights a broader strategy for revitalizing the Falcons as they work to break away from a cycle of underperformance. With eight straight losing seasons weighing heavily on the franchise’s reputation, a commitment to innovative strategies and fresh leadership could be pivotal. As the new management structure unfolds, the Falcons appear focused on restoring a winning culture that resonates with their passionate fan base.
The Impact on the Community
The importance of a strong leadership team extends beyond the football field; a successful franchise can invigorate the local economy. Increased team performance typically translates into higher attendance, merchandise sales, and local business engagement, all of which contribute positively to the Austin TX business landscape. As the Falcons make changes in the front office, local entrepreneurs watching the hiring closely might glean insights on how effective leadership and strategic direction can reinforce Austin’s dynamic economy.
Looking Ahead
As the Falcons wrestle with defining their future, the decision for a new general manager stands as a multifaceted challenge filled with opportunity. By harnessing the wealth of experience represented in candidates like Cunningham and Williams, the Falcons can pivot towards a more productive era. The leadership choices made at this juncture will not only affect the team’s performance but will also resonate throughout the local community and the broader Texas economic landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Atlanta Falcons are navigating a critical transition as they pursue a new general manager. The appointed leader will face the challenge of improving team dynamics while influencing the local economy positively. Stakeholders, including local businesses and fans, should remain engaged in this process to support the team’s resurgence and potential impact on the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the latest candidates interviewed for the Falcons’ general manager position?
The Atlanta Falcons have interviewed Chicago Bears assistant general manager Ian Cunningham and San Francisco 49ers director of scouting and football operations Josh Williams as part of their ongoing search for a new general manager.
What are Ian Cunningham’s qualifications?
Ian Cunningham has been with the Bears since 2022, serving as their first-ever assistant general manager. Prior to that, he spent five years with the Philadelphia Eagles, holding roles such as director of college scouting and director of player personnel. Cunningham began his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, where he worked as a personnel assistant and area scout.
What is Josh Williams’ background?
Josh Williams has been with the 49ers for 15 seasons, starting as an assistant within the scouting department in 2011. Over the years, he has held various positions, including pro personnel scout, area scout, and national scout, before becoming the director of scouting and football operations.
Why is the Falcons’ general manager position open?
The Falcons’ search for a new general manager is part of a broader organizational overhaul. After an 8-9 finish in the 2025 season, marking their eighth consecutive losing season, owner Arthur Blank dismissed head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. The team hired former Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski to replace Morris.
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