The Atlanta Falcons have been deliberate in their search for a new general manager, holding an initial round of interviews last week that appears to have narrowed the field to two candidates — Texans assistant GM James Liipfert and Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham.

According to Albert Breer, both candidates are scheduled for final interviews on Thursday, which suggests a decision could be made by the end of the week.

The Falcons will interview both Texans assistant GM James Liipfert and Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham for their general manager job on Thursday, per sources. Two really good candidates, and this sets up for a decision in the coming days.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) January 27, 2026

Cunningham has been viewed as the favorite from the start by several NFL insiders, and his ties to Matt Ryan have only strengthened that belief. Cunningham currently serves under Bears GM Ryan Poles in Chicago, who is a close friend of the Falcons’ new President of Football. Ryan and Poles were teammates at Boston College and have remained close ever since. In fact, Poles has reportedly been helping Ryan as he transitions into the front office.

That’s a connection that’s impossible to ignore, but Liipfert appears to have plenty of support in Flowery Branch as well. He reportedly impressed during the first round of interviews and brings an impeccable résumé. Liipfert spent nine years as a scout with the New England Patriots, helping them win multiple Super Bowls, and has played a key role in building a Texans roster that has emerged as a legitimate championship contender over the past few seasons.

Liipfert also has local ties, having played linebacker at Georgia Tech from 2005–2008.

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Photographer: Ken Murray/Icon Sportswire