The Washington Commanders have narrowed their search for their next head of football operations down to two candidates, Adam Peters and Ian Cunningham, after interviewing five potential candidates. The finalists will undergo second interviews with owner Josh Harris’ minority partners, with a decision expected within days. The team has also requested permission to speak with seven head-coaching candidates but plans to finalize the head of football operations role first.
The finalists for Washington’s top front office position are the San Francisco 49ers’ Adam Peters and Chicago Bears’ Ian Cunningham, both with extensive NFL experience and successful track records. Cunningham has 16 years of front office experience, while Peters has 21 years. In terms of draft results, Peters' teams have had success hitting on secondary players, while Cunningham's teams have excelled in selecting offensive linemen. Both candidates have been involved in significant trades and acquisitions.
The Washington Commanders are close to naming a head of football operations, with 49ers assistant General Manager Adam Peters and Bears assistant General Manager Ian Cunningham as the two finalists. Both are expected to receive second interviews in the coming days, and the Commanders have also put in requests to interview current assistants for their next head coach.
Chicago Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham discussed the team's pre-draft plans, including the possibility of selecting Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter and the need for offensive tackles. Cunningham stated that the team has six to eight players in their top-tier group for their pick at No. 9 and could potentially trade back. He also mentioned the importance of finding a balance between selecting a tackle early and potentially finding one in later rounds. The Bears have a couple more days to prepare for the draft and are ready for any scenario.
The Chicago Bears will prioritize the "best player available" approach in the 2023 NFL draft, according to assistant GM Ian Cunningham. While the team has needs at defensive tackle, edge rusher, and offensive tackle, Cunningham said positional need will come more into play on the third day of the draft. The Bears have six selections on the third day, and there are six to eight players that Chicago has tabbed as options at the ninth spot.
