Matt Ryan, the quarterback known for his laser focus and clutch performances, recently announced his retirement after a 16-year career. Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2008, Ryan spent most of his career leading the Falcons through highs and lows, etching his name in franchise history. Let’s look back at the (potentially?) future Hall of Famer’s career.
From College Star to Atlanta Falcon
Ryan emerged from Boston College as a highly-rated prospect, leading the Eagles to a top-five national ranking in his senior year. The Falcons selected him third overall in 2008, ushering in a new era for the franchise.
Ryan quickly became the centerpiece of the Falcons offense. He earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and led Atlanta to several playoff appearances. This included a Super Bowl appearance in 2016 (which they led 28-3…). He wasn’t just a talented quarterback, but a leader and a fan favorite. His dedication to the city and his calm demeanor under pressure earned him the nickname “Matty Ice.”
During that Super Bowl year, he led Atlanta to an 11-5 record, recording 4,944 passing yards, 38 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions. A QBR of 79.6 led the league as well. The Offensive Player of the Year Award also went to the signal-caller.
He led Atlanta to the playoffs again in 2017, but they would fall to the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round 15-10.
Atlanta would record four straight losing seasons, including a 4-12 record in 2020 and 7-10 in 2021. Despite the down year in 2020, he led the NFL in completions (407). How much stock you want to put into that, it is up to you.
2021 would be his last as a Falcon, as the team would trade him to Indianapolis for a third-round pick in 2022.
A Brief Stop in Indianapolis
After 14 seasons in Atlanta, Ryan was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in hopes of reviving their playoff aspirations. Unfortunately, Ryan’s tenure in Indianapolis didn’t go as planned. The Colts’ offensive line struggled, and Ryan’s mobility limitations were exposed. He was eventually benched for the first time in his career in week eight against Washington.
Ryan would appear in 12 games, leading the team to just a 4-7-1 record as a starter. He would miss the final three games of the year (coach’s decision).
Broadcast Booth + Retirement
Ryan would transition to work in the broadcast booth for CBS in 2023. He expressed a desire to play for a team last year, but no one would give him a chance in the end.
Then, the signal-called knew it was time. He signed a one-day contract with the Falcons to officially retire as a member of the team that drafted him. It was a heartwarming gesture that solidified his legacy in Atlanta.
A Legacy of Consistency and Leadership
Ryan holds many Falcons passing records, including most passing yards, passing touchdowns, and wins by a quarterback. He leaves Atlanta as one of the greatest players to wear the Falcons uniform.
His remarkable consistency is a hallmark of his career. He missed only three games due to injury during his tenure in Atlanta, a testament to his dedication and toughness.
Matt Ryan’s career was a tale of two chapters. He thrived in Atlanta, as he led the Falcons to their most successful era. While his time in Indianapolis was not inspiring, it didn’t diminish his accomplishments. “Matty Ice” retires as a respected player, a franchise icon, and a testament to dedication and leadership.
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Featured Image: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images
