NEWSLETTER
Ryan Poles’ top lieutenant remains in the hunt for one of the GM openings that remains in the NFL.
The Tennessee Titans, who fired their general manager while in first place before their epic late-season collapse, are reportedly lining up Cunningham for another interview. NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo has the scoop:
It is a second interview for Cunningham with Tennessee. Cunningham joins Titans interim GM Ryan Cowden and 49ers exec Ran Carthon in getting a second look in Nashville. Cunningham has been a popular interview candidate in recent years. This offseason, Cunningham was in the mix for the Cardinals gig before it went to Monti Ossenfort. So it isn’t surprising that the Titans want to have another conversation with Cunningham. Keep in mind that Cunningham was in attendance at the NFL’s Front Office Accelerator Program. He is also seen as a secret weapon in Chicago’s front office. There is no doubt Cunningham is a fast riser in the industry. In other words, we might need to get used to seeing a high level of interest in Cunningham from other teams. Whether it’s this offseason or in the years to come, Cunningham will be popular.
Thinking about Cunningham possibly being one-and-done in Chicago cuts multiple ways. Because, on the one hand, I find it encouraging that the Bears have a front office other teams want to pluck from. It also speaks highly of Poles’ eye for front-office talent that teams want to scoop Cunningham after one year on the job. In a way, I think other teams’ interest in Cunningham signals that this organization is heading in the right direction. But on the other hand, I’d hate to lose Cunningham before what could be a franchise-altering offseason.
The Bears should be putting all available energy into plotting out this offseason’s game plan. Losing Cunningham would lead to the Bears needing to find a new top assistant. So while I want Cunningham to use the Bears as a springboard to spread his wings, fly, and achieve success, I also selfishly wouldn’t mind if he had to wait a year. It is a tough position to be in, but it is where I stand.
We’ll continue following Cunningham’s interview status with great interest.
