Matt Ryan is the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts. Since being selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, Ryan has played in the NFL for fifteen seasons. Throughout his career, Ryan has been one of the safest hands in the NFL and was a perennial MVP award contender, thanks to his wealth of skills.
In the early part of his career, Ryan was known and respected around the league for his rocket arm and outstanding football IQ. This helped him lead the Falcons to postseason appearances and the occasional deep playoff run. His peers have always appreciated his greatness, and Ryan has earned several top 100 player nods.
Why did Matt Ryan leave the Atlanta Falcons?
The Atlanta Falcons took Matt Ryan with the third-overall pick of the 2008 NFL Draft. He became an instant starter following his selection, which is something that not many players can boast of. Even legends like Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Aaron Rodgers didn't start from day one of their storied NFL careers. The Atlanta Falcons handed over the keys to Ryan, and it suffices to say that they made the right decision.
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However, everything must end, even the best of things. So, before the 2022 NFL season, Matt Ryan was traded to the Indianapolis Colts for a third-round pick. Thus came the end of a fourteen-year-long relationship between Ryan and the Falcons.
Ryan left the Falcons because the front office felt they were due for a change at QB. The Falcons are potentially considering drafting a top-notch QB in the stacked 2023 NFL Draft class, unless they do decide to stick with Marcus Mariota or Desmond Ridder going forward.
How is Matt Ryan performing this season?
Ryan is playing in his first season in Indianapolis, and he's not having the best of times. The Colts are struggling with a 4-8-1 record and are now almost certainly out of playoff contention.
Ryan has put up a solid showing at QB for the Colts, even as they have faltered. The 15-year pro has recorded 2,875 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 11 games this season.
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