FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Matt Ryan is stepping into a new role as the president of football operations for the Atlanta Falcons, and he’s fueled by a drive to finish what he started. Having led the Falcons as quarterback for 14 years, he experienced the highs of winning the NFL MVP award in 2016 and taking the team to the Super Bowl. However, the championship title eluded them, leaving a sense of unfinished business.
As the new president, Ryan’s first big job is to find a new head coach and general manager. This comes after the recent firing of coach Raheem Morris and GM Terry Fontenot, following a disappointing 8-9 season. Owner Arthur Blank has also revamped the front office, establishing Ryan’s position to enhance leadership in football operations.
At Ryan’s introductory press conference, he expressed his ongoing commitment to winning. “To the Falcons fans, my mission since I was drafted has never changed. It is to help this organization be champions,” he said. His passion for the Falcons runs deep, explaining, “This is the only place I would do it. I feel really connected to this organization.”
Ryan’s leadership is expected to provide clarity and direction. He’ll oversee the new coach and GM, but he’s clear about his boundaries: he won’t meddle with the day-to-day decisions that those roles typically entail.
A recent survey from the NFL revealed that nearly 65% of fans believe leadership changes are crucial to a team’s success. This sentiment could work in Ryan’s favor as he takes on his new responsibilities. Blank praised Ryan, noting discussions with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who endorsed him as a perfect fit for the role, calling him a committed leader and a great human being.
Ryan’s transition from player to front office isn’t common in the NFL. However, his passion for the Falcons and his experience in the league give him a unique perspective that could be a game-changer. The road ahead is challenging, but Ryan is ready to tackle it, driven by the hope of bringing a championship to Atlanta.
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