The 49ershave a general manager opening following today's game, and the Rams might have one as well, depending on who their next coach is. There may be one more.
Eliot Wolf, Packers: The personnel man right below GM Ted Thompson in Green Bay could succeed Thompson when he retires -- and that might be this offseason. If not, the son of legendary Ron Wolf, who has created his own name in scouting circles, will draw interview interest just like last year. He's stood out in a talented Packers front office.
Chris Ballard, Chiefs: Once considered the front-runner to take over in Chicago, Ballard has toiled under GM John Dorsey as Kansas City has built a consistent winner. They've consistently hit on draft picks, and Ballard is a reason why. The 49ers have requested permission to interview Ballard for their GM job, per a source informed.
Joey Clinkscales, Raiders: The Lieutenant to GM Reggie McKenzie, Clinkscales is an executive who teams have been doing homework on. McKenzie also is not shy about pushing his deserved staff members, especially those who were instrumental in the rebuild. He also helped the Jets find success.
Trey Brown, Eagles: Known publicly as the guy from the Microsoft commercial, he's also from the Bill Belichick tree. Under the radar but known for finding talent in a multitude of places. He also played for the Bears.
Scott Fitterrer, Seahawks: One of Seattle's many rising talents, Fitterer rose to help run personnel from the college scouting ranks. As they've excelled in the draft, he's a big reason why.
Trent Kirchner, Seahawks: Another young Seattle talent scout, Kirchner thrived on the pro side. With the Seahawks finding more undrafted free agents than almost anyone to play, Kirchner has considerable say there. His John Schneider-like background has him heavily involved in free agency.
Chris Grier, Dolphins: Officially the general manager for the Dolphins, he lacks final say, so Grier can be lured away by a job with full control. Given how quickly Miami has changed over the roster, someone looking for a quick turnaround might find him attractive.
Will McClay, Cowboys: The brain behind the change in the way Dallas operates from a personnel perspective, McClay has excelled behind the scenes. But with Dallas' success and focus on film rather than limelight, he's gained deserved praise.
Jimmy Raye III, Colts: From football bloodlines, Raye's experience in San Diego was purely scouting. In Indy, he's done it all including administrative and operations. If Indy does make a change in personnel, he'd be an internal option. The bridge between the scouts and coaches.
Terry McDonough, Cardinals: A true scout, McDonough has branched out into some administrative responsibilities recently. He's become a right-hand man for GM Steve Keim.
Brian Gaine, Texans: Houston has found a way to win, despite injuries and a revolving door at quarterback. Gaine is a tireless pro scout who works the phones and waiver wire to great success. He's quickly earned trust with the Texans.
George Paton, Vikings: A potential heir-apparent in Minnesota, Paton has turned down more interviews than he's done. The right hand for Rick Spielman, Paton has also been a trusted voice in Chicago and Miami.
Brandon Beane, Panthers: When Marty Hurney was replaced, it was Beane who capably stepped in to run the places for a few months. He was eventually promoted to assistant GM, assisting Dave Gettleman in pro and college evaluations, as well as contractual matters. Well-rounded.
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