The Atlanta Falcons signaled a new era at the quarterback spot when they traded longtime signal-caller Matt Ryan to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for a 2022 second round pick on Monday. Ryan played for Atlanta for 14 seasons, leading the team to a 120-102 record as a starter and a Super Bowl berth in 2016. Needless to say, there are many in Atlanta who are sad to see Ryan go. The franchise's owner, Arthur Blank, released a statement via the team's Twitter account following Ryan's trade.
A statement from Owner Arthur M. Blank on Matt Ryan.
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) March 21, 2022
Arthur Blank penned a classy statement commending Matt Ryan for his “class, professionalism and leadership.” Blank called Ryan the “epitome of a franchise quarterback.”
It's hard to argue with Blank there, as the Falcons drafted Ryan back in 2008. The Boston College product went on to start every single game in 12 of his 14 seasons with the team, making the Pro Bowl four times while winning the NFL's MVP award back in 2016.
That season was Ryan's peak performance in a Falcons uniform, as he completed a career-high 69.9 percent of his passes while throwing for 4944 yards, 38 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. Atlanta coasted through the NFC but famously blew a lead in the Super Bowl to the New England Patriots.
Aside from his performance on the field, Ryan was also a leader off of it, as he raised money to support the city of Atlanta throughout his career.
Ryan's steady presence under center will clearly be missed in Atlanta.
Follow Us
Subscribe