Matt Ryan, a former NFL Most Valuable Player, concluded his professional football career by officially retiring as a member of the Atlanta Falcons. Ryan spent 14 seasons as the Falcons’ quarterback after being drafted as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 draft. He also played one final season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022 before transitioning to a role as a television analyst last season.
In a three-minute-plus video posted by the Falcons on Monday, Ryan announced his retirement, expressing gratitude to the city and the team. He remarked, “My childhood dream has officially come to an end. I’m honored to retire as a Falcon.”
During his career, Ryan showcased his skills by leading the NFL in completions in 2019 and 2020 and earning the 2016 MVP award. His standout performance in 2016 included leading the team to an 11-5 record with 4,944 passing yards, 38 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. He also received recognition with four Pro Bowl selections.
Reflecting on Ryan’s contributions, Falcons owner Arthur Blank praised his impact on the organization and the city, highlighting Ryan’s achievements, including holding significant passing records in franchise history and his consistent representation of class, character, and integrity.
Ryan’s career spanned 234 games, with the majority played in Atlanta, where he posted a remarkable 124-109-1 record and displayed durability by missing only three games with the Falcons. He amassed impressive statistics, including 62,792 passing yards (seventh in NFL history), 381 touchdown passes (ninth in NFL history), and 183 interceptions. His 38 fourth-quarter comebacks rank him fourth all-time behind Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Ben Roethlisberger.
In his retirement announcement, Ryan expressed happiness at ending his career with the Falcons, noting the fortunate opportunity to start and finish his journey in Atlanta.
