There were some questions early in the season surrounding Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and if he was past his prime. As the season went on, he proved that he was a solid quarterback and could continue to play at a high level. Ryan finished the season throwing for 4,446 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.

It was a trying season for Ryan but it should help him get better for next year. Let's look at the three main takeaways from his 2019 NFL season.

3. The Falcons need to get him some protection

Ryan is 34 years old, and as the years continue to pass by, he isn't going to be able to take as many hits or his body will give out on him. The offensive line was shaky all season which caused a lot of unnecessary hits on Ryan. He was sacked 48 times and that is something that can't continue next season if they want him to make it through the year.

With the continued pressure, Ryan has gotten better with scrambling. Going forward though, the goal should be to not have their franchise quarterback running for his life.

The number one priority this season should be finding guys who can improve the offensive line. If he has more time to throw the ball next season, he should be even better.

2. The Matty Ice name still fits him

The Falcons didn't make the playoffs, but late in the season, “Matty Ice” found his way back onto the team. Against the San Francisco 49ers, Ryan led the team to 19 points in the fourth quarter to win the game.

Early in the season, Matty Ice didn't always show up, but the way he played in the second half of the season has to give the team great hope going forward.

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1. Ryan and Julio Jones are still one of the best duos in football

It doesn't matter how many defenders the opposing team puts on Julio Jones, Ryan is going to find a way to get him the ball. Jones finished the 2019 season catching 99 passes for 1,394 yards and six touchdowns.

As long as Ryan and Jones are on the team, the Falcons are going to have a chance, even if the defense isn't holding up their end of the bargain. Next season, look for Jones and Ryan to improve on these stats.

There are a lot of questions surrounding the Falcons, but they know they still have their franchise quarterback in Ryan.