Former NFL MVP and CBS Sports Analyst Matt Ryan has been appointed as the President of Football for the Atlanta Falcons, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Ryan, who spent 14 seasons with the team, is set to take on a new role that will see him oversee all aspects of the Falcons' football operations, reporting directly to Owner and Chairman Arthur M. Blank. This appointment comes as the team embarks on a journey to find a new head coach and general manager, both of whom will report to Ryan.
Blank praised Ryan's leadership, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to success, highlighting his remarkable 14-year career in Atlanta. "Throughout his time with the Falcons, Matt has been the most successful player in our franchise's history," Blank said. "I am confident that his qualities will be a tremendous asset as he steps into this new role."
Ryan's transition into this executive position is seamless, given his extensive experience in the NFL. After his 15-year playing career, he has been a game and studio analyst for CBS over the past three years, providing insightful commentary on the league. His deep understanding of the NFL, coupled with his unique knowledge of the organization and the market, positions him well for this new challenge.
"Arthur gave me the chance of a lifetime almost twenty years ago, and he's done it again today," Ryan expressed. "I'm thrilled to be back home, and I couldn't be more excited, grateful, or humbled by this opportunity. My goal has always been to contribute to the success of the Blank family, the Falcons organization, the City of Atlanta, and our dedicated fans."
Ryan's impact on the field is undeniable. He led the Falcons to the postseason five times, including two NFC Championship Games and one Super Bowl appearance. His impressive statistics include franchise records for passing yards, attempts, completions, touchdowns, and passer rating. Ryan's success extended beyond the field as well, as he was named the Falcons Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee in 2016 for his community service, particularly his work with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and his advocacy for 'Miracle Babies'.
In 2020, Ryan and his wife, Sarah, launched ATL: Advance the Lives, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Black youth. Their efforts have raised $1.3 million, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact on the community. Ryan's dedication to community service and his leadership on and off the field make him an ideal candidate for this new role, as he aims to build on the team's strong foundation and foster a culture of accountability and success.
