The Chicago Bears are picking first in the 2023 NFL Draft — something the team has not done since before the Super Bowl era (1947). The team is officially on the clock despite the 2022 playoff season not being underway yet. Ryan Poles and company will have plenty of opportunities to trade the pick I am sure. The team also has the largest amount of salary cap space by a very wide margin. Basically, Ryan Poles will be well-equipped, but could also be on the verge of losing Ian Cunningham — a vital piece to the current regime.
The Chicago Bears may lose Ian Cunningham this offseason
Everyone was worried that Luke Getsy could be on the move, but not enough people were talking about Ian Cunningham. Cunningham is Ryan Poles’ right-hand man. Cunningham and Poles spent a large portion of the offseason together — including a stint where they lived together. They have been on the road, scouting players together too. Cunningham is the Assistant General Manager for the Chicago Bears and has been a vital piece to Poles’ current regime.
Cunningham has been named as a potential general manager candidate for the Tennessee Titans. Landing that job would be great for Cunningham. However, I cannot imagine that Poles would like to see Cunningham go. At the same time, you’d have to think he’d be happy for his close friend. Cunningham is a rising star among general manager candidates. Chicago was lucky to snag him from Philadelphia. To see him go so quickly makes sense, but won’t make Ryan Poles’ job any easier.