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The Chicago Bears did not receive compensatory draft picks for losing assistant general manager Ian Cunningham because the NFL determined that his hiring by the Atlanta Falcons did not qualify under the league's minority hiring incentive program (an extension of the Rooney Rule principles).
This program awards teams two third-round compensatory picks (one in each of the next two drafts) when they develop and lose a minority executive or coach to a head coaching or general manager position elsewhere, specifically when the hire is for a primary/lead football decision-making role.
In Cunningham's case:
- The Falcons structured their front office with Matt Ryan (former quarterback) as president of football operations, positioned as the primary or top football executive with final say over personnel matters.
- Even though Cunningham was hired as GM and multiple reports (including statements from Ryan, Cunningham himself, and Bears GM Ryan Poles) indicated Cunningham would effectively run football operations and make key decisions, the NFL classified Ryan as the "primary football executive."
- Therefore, Cunningham's role did not meet the league's strict threshold for triggering the compensatory picks.
The Bears appealed this decision, with both teams (Chicago and Atlanta) arguing in favor of the picks, and Cunningham publicly expressed confusion/surprise, stating his understanding was that a GM hire should qualify. However, the NFL finalized the 2026 compensatory picks on March 9, 2026, without awarding any to the Bears for this situation.
This has been a point of frustration for Bears fans and staff, as it hinged on the Falcons' organizational title structure rather than the practical authority Cunningham holds. No precedent or exception was made despite the appeals.
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