Posted on Feb 24

Bears dispute draft compensation after Falcons hire GM Cunningham, seeking two third-round picks

Posted Feb 24, 2026

The Chicago Bears are seeking compensatory draft picks following Ian Cunningham's departure to the Atlanta Falcons as their new general manager.

Why it matters: This situation underscores the ongoing discussions surrounding diversity and equity in NFL front offices, particularly regarding the compensation structure for teams that develop minority candidates who subsequently secure promotions elsewhere.

The NFL implemented a rule in 2020 aimed at encouraging diversity by awarding compensatory picks to teams that lose minority coaches or executives.
In this case, the Bears are asserting their right to two third-round picks based on Cunningham’s hire, which could set a precedent for future hires.

What's new: Ian Cunningham was officially hired by the Falcons on January 29, moving from his role as assistant general manager in Chicago.

Cunningham had been with the Bears since 2022, contributing significantly to the team's player evaluation processes.
His appointment in Atlanta marks a crucial step in his career, aligning with the NFL's push for greater representation in leadership roles.

Yes, but: The Bears assertion that they deserve two third-round picks may not be straightforward.

Ryan Poles, the Bears’ general manager, expressed pride in Cunningham's achievement but indicated uncertainty over the league’s interpretation of the compensation rule.
Cunningham himself noted, "It was always my interpretation that if a general manager gets hired, that team would receive two third-round picks."

What to watch: The NFL's response will be critical in determining whether the Bears receive the anticipated compensation.

Compensatory picks for losing personnel are typically announced prior to the new league year, which begins in March, leaving the Bears waiting for clarity.
This decision could influence how other teams approach the hiring of minority candidates in the future.

Between the lines: The Bears dispute highlights potential ambiguities in the NFL's compensatory pick policy.

Ryan Poles commented on the need for clear guidelines, stating, “If that is the rule they have in place, I think it's very clear in the situation what should happen.”
There is an implicit recognition that while the NFL has made strides in promoting diversity, its policies may still require refinement to ensure equitable treatment across franchises.

The bottom line: The outcome of this dispute could impact not only the Bears and the Falcons but also the broader landscape of NFL operations, shaping how teams perceive and respond to the development of their front office talent.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the league will navigate these complexities while upholding its commitment to diversity and fair compensation.

Bears dispute draft compensation after Falcons hire GM Cunningham, seeking two third-round picks

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 24, 2026

The Chicago Bears are seeking compensatory draft picks following Ian Cunningham's departure to the Atlanta Falcons as their new general manager.

The NFL implemented a rule in 2020 aimed at encouraging diversity by awarding compensatory picks to teams that lose minority coaches or executives.

In this case, the Bears are asserting their right to two third-round picks based on Cunningham’s hire, which could set a precedent for future hires.

What's new: Ian Cunningham was officially hired by the Falcons on January 29, moving from his role as assistant general manager in Chicago.

Cunningham had been with the Bears since 2022, contributing significantly to the team's player evaluation processes.

His appointment in Atlanta marks a crucial step in his career, aligning with the NFL's push for greater representation in leadership roles.

Yes, but: The Bears assertion that they deserve two third-round picks may not be straightforward.

Ryan Poles, the Bears’ general manager, expressed pride in Cunningham's achievement but indicated uncertainty over the league’s interpretation of the compensation rule.

Cunningham himself noted, "It was always my interpretation that if a general manager gets hired, that team would receive two third-round picks."

What to watch: The NFL's response will be critical in determining whether the Bears receive the anticipated compensation.

Compensatory picks for losing personnel are typically announced prior to the new league year, which begins in March, leaving the Bears waiting for clarity.

This decision could influence how other teams approach the hiring of minority candidates in the future.

Between the lines: The Bears dispute highlights potential ambiguities in the NFL's compensatory pick policy.

Ryan Poles commented on the need for clear guidelines, stating, “If that is the rule they have in place, I think it's very clear in the situation what should happen.”

There is an implicit recognition that while the NFL has made strides in promoting diversity, its policies may still require refinement to ensure equitable treatment across franchises.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the league will navigate these complexities while upholding its commitment to diversity and fair compensation.