The Falcons’ recent hiring of former Bears assistant G.M. Ian Cunningham to succeed Terry Fontenot has sparked questions about the NFL’s definition of a “primary football executive” and its impact on the Rooney Rule. While Cunningham now manages key football operations, including the draft and free agency, he is not recognized by the league as the team’s primary football executive.
That designation remains with Falcons president of football operations Matt Ryan, despite Ryan publicly acknowledging Cunningham’s operational authority, stating, “This is Ian’s regular season right now…he is driving the ship.”
The distinction carries practical consequences under the Rooney Rule, which awards compensatory draft picks to teams that develop minority employees who earn promotions to head coach or primary football executive. Because the league identifies Ryan as holding that role, the Bears would not receive two third-round picks if Cunningham were promoted, even though he is effectively leading the team’s football decisions.
Ian Cunningham (NFL)NFL Inconsistencies Reveal Tension Between Titles, Authority, and Minority Recognition Opportunities
The situation also highlights inconsistencies compared with prior cases. When the Falcons hired Terry Fontenot as G.M. in 2022, the Saints received compensatory picks despite then-president Rich McKay being involved in football operations. This raises questions about how the NFL determines which executive qualifies for the rule and underscores the tension between formal titles and operational authority.
Ultimately, the controversy illustrates a gap between official league designations and day-to-day team leadership. While Cunningham directs critical football operations, the league’s reliance on formal titles affects both strategic decision-making and opportunities for minority candidates. Clearer definitions may be needed to reconcile influence, responsibility, and recognition in NFL front offices.
