The Atlanta Falcons drafted Matt Ryan in the first-round of the 2008 NFL Draft from the Boston College Eagles. Ryan had a successful career with Atlanta from 2008-2021. He won an MVP Award with the Falcons during the 2016 season. That was the same season that the Falcons reached the Super Bowl before they blew that 28-3 lead against the New England Patriots.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan leaves the field after being defeated by the New England Patriots 34-28 in overtime in Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium on Feb 5, 2017.
Even with that moment, Ryan represented this organization with class and dignity. He was a great person on the field and off the field for them. The Falcons have had a hard time trying to replace him at the quarterback position since then. Ryan was with CBS Sports for a few years after his NFL career, but he is now back in Atlanta’s front office.
Matt Ryan Headlines Atlanta Falcons All PFF Team Over the Last 20 Seasons
Jan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; Former player Matt Ryan in attendance of the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Nathan Jahnke of profootballfocus.com created the Falcons all offensive team over the last 20 seasons. To no shock, Ryan has been the best quarterback for Atlanta over the last 20 seasons. Jahnke said,
“The Falcons’ offense has peaked three times over the last 20 years. They fielded a consistent top-10 unit early in Matt Ryan’s career from 2008 to 2012. They then had the clear top offense in 2016, when they scored 540 points and reached the Super Bowl. Over the last few seasons, they have had the pieces of an excellent offense but haven’t had the right quarterback.”
Ryan no doubt is a Falcons legend. His number will never be worn again for this franchise. However, is there a chance that he could wind up in Canton, Ohio? That is something that remains to be seen here.
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