Former Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan Announced Retirement
He entered the league on the tail of a raging controversy. Taken in the 2008 NFL draft third overall expectations were high. And now former Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan has announced his retirement. He spent 14 seasons with the Falcons and was traded to the Colts in 2022. In Atlanta, he holds the franchise records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, attempts, completions, passer rating, and wins. He took the Falcons to the playoffs in his first season, earning him Offensive Rookie of the Year. It was especially impressive considering he came into the league with controversy surrounding the Falcons.
Prior to the 2008 draft, star QB Michael Vick had been convicted for his role in a dog fighting ring. Vick was released by the Falcons and Matt Ryan became the starting quarterback. Ryan did not allow the Vick controversy to distract him as evidenced by his successful rookie year. He went on to have a great career with the Falcons. Leading the team to six playoff appearances, three of which were division titles, and receiving four Pro Bowl selections. In 2016, he was at the peak of his career when he won NFL Most Valuable Player and led his team to Super Bowl LI.
Besides his on-field success, he was well-liked off the field. Below are comments from his former teammates and coach:
Tony Gonzalez: People can do all they want during the regular season, but what separates you is when you get to the playoffs and you make plays in the clutch moment. Matt was very good at that during the regular season, he’s got a load of comebacks. But in the playoffs is when it really, really counts.
Kyle Pitts, tight end: (He) took me under his wing my rookie year and showed me the way. It was rough, but he helped me out from the start.
Former Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan Announced Retirement
Dan Quinn, head coach: Four touchdowns, zero sacks, zero interceptions, 392 yards. You talk about precision and trying to carve somebody up? That kind of mindset and that kind of performance stood out to me. And because he is Matty Ice, but also Matty Wheels. I look back and he ran three times for 23 yards. That is a big day for Matt rushing the ball. (regarding NFC championship game against Green Bay)
Matt Ryan made a touching video regarding his retirement, check it out here. In Matt’s words, “16 years after being drafted my childhood dream has officially come to an end.” Great job Matt Ryan, enjoy your retirement.
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