The Chicago Bears lost one of their top front-office members, with assistant general manager Ian Cunningham taking the Atlanta Falcons' general manager job.
While it does hurt the Bears in some ways, this might actually present an interesting opportunity for Chicago general manager Ryan Poles. He's got his former colleague and college buddy, Matt Ryan, in the building in Atlanta now, so they could talk shop and maybe strike a deal or two.
There are three realistic trade possibilities that could help both franchises in different ways. Which trade packages could Poles offer Cunningham and Ryan to strike a deal?
Bears Receive: Tyler Allgeier, RB and 2026 Fourth Round Pick
Falcons Receive: D'Andre Swift, RB
There's a lot of talk of what the Bears are going to do with Swift after having a career year, but that hasn't stopped the trade rumors from happening. With Kyle Monangai emerging the way he did with 783 yards and five touchdowns in his rookie season, it certainly opens the door for Chicago to move some pieces around.
Atlanta could get a perfect complementary piece for Bijan Robinson in the backfield, while the Bears get a speed guy in Allgeier to work well with Monangai. Plus, the Bears can save some money while adding a Day 3 pick in the NFL Draft, and both sides win.
Bears Receive: 2026 Third Round Pick
Falcons Receive: DJ Moore, WR
Moore is another Bears player with an uncertain future, as he experienced a down year despite being one of the leading receivers. There is a strong possibility that he could be used as trade bait in the offseason.
The Falcons need a reliable WR2 for Drake London, and Chicago won't say no to saving money and adding another draft pick. Another trade where it works out for both sides.
Read more: Bears fans will sweat it out with Chicago free agents Ian Cunningham could target
Bears Receive: Jessie Bates III, S
Falcons Receive: 2026 Third Round Pick
This one is more of a stretch, but it could work for both sides. Chicago is losing Kevin Byard III and Jaquan Brisker to free agency, so an opening could present itself in the secondary to replace one and sign the other.
Bates is a stellar defender the Falcons love to have in their secondary, but they might be thinking about the future and bringing in younger talent. If Chicago can get Bates back there with Byard, this could be an elite safety room.