Matt Ryan is back to save the Falcons. Can the franchise legend fix Atlanta’s football mess?
Matt Ryan returns to Atlanta in powerful new Falcons role. Image Source: Sky Sports
The Atlanta Falcons have turned to a familiar face in a bold bid to reset their future. On Saturday, the franchise officially named Matt Ryan, arguably the greatest player in team history, as its first-ever president of football, handing the former quarterback sweeping authority over football operations at one of the NFL’s most underperforming teams of the past decade.
Ryan’s return marks a dramatic shift for Atlanta, which is coming off another disappointing 8–9 season and has not reached the playoffs since 2017, the final year of Ryan’s tenure as the team’s quarterback. The move signals both urgency and trust, urgency to fix a broken system, and trust in a leader who once carried the franchise to its greatest heights.
A Newly Created Role With Immediate Power
The president of football position was created by owner Arthur Blank following the dismissal of head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. Ryan will report directly to Blank and will lead the search for both a new head coach and general manager, while also overseeing whoever is hired into those roles.
Although Ryan has no prior front-office experience, Blank emphasized the qualities that made him the natural choice.
“Matt’s leadership, football intelligence, emotional intelligence and ability to succeed across multiple regimes made him the most successful player in our history,” Blank said.
In the modern NFL, that combination of credibility, trust and long-term vision is increasingly valued, especially by franchises trying to rebuild culture as much as rosters.
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Ryan, now 40, spent 14 seasons as the Falcons’ quarterback after being drafted third overall in 2008. He led Atlanta to five playoff appearances, including a Super Bowl run, and still owns nearly every major passing record in team history, 59,745 passing yards and 367 touchdowns, among them.
After leaving the Falcons, Ryan had brief stints with the Indianapolis Colts and later transitioned into broadcasting as an NFL analyst for CBS Sports, a role he will now leave to rejoin the organization that defined his career.
“I’ve always been a Falcon,” Ryan said. “It feels great to be home.”
Why the Falcons Turned to One of Their Own
Atlanta’s struggles since Ryan’s departure have been well-documented. The team has cycled through coaches, endured front-office instability and failed to establish a clear football identity.
By hiring Ryan, the Falcons are betting on institutional memory, leadership credibility and long-term alignment, traits that can be difficult to buy on the open market.
The move also reflects a broader NFL trend: teams increasingly turning to former players in executive roles, with mixed but sometimes transformative results.
Skepticism and Support From Around the League
Not everyone is convinced the move will work. History shows that being a great player doesn’t always translate to executive success. Still, many former Falcons players and coaches have publicly backed the hire, calling it a “slam dunk” given Ryan’s preparation, discipline and deep understanding of organizational dynamics.
Ryan’s supporters argue that his lack of front-office experience may actually be an advantage, allowing him to approach decisions without entrenched biases while leaning on seasoned evaluators beneath him.
What Comes Next for Atlanta
Ryan’s first and most critical task will be shaping the next leadership era of Falcons football. The head coach and GM hires will define his tenure before it truly begins.
With Greg Beadles elevated to president and CEO, the Falcons aim to better align football and business operations, a structure Ryan will help coordinate.
For a franchise desperate for relevance, the message is clear: the Falcons are placing their future in the hands of the man who once carried their hopes on Sundays.
FAQ
Who is Matt Ryan’s new role with the Atlanta Falcons?
Matt Ryan has been named president of football, a newly created executive role overseeing football operations, including hiring the head coach and general manager.
Why did the Falcons hire Matt Ryan?
The Falcons hired Ryan for his leadership, deep knowledge of the organization, credibility with players and proven ability to lead across different coaching regimes.
Does Matt Ryan have front office experience?
No. This is Ryan’s first front-office role, though team owner Arthur Blank cited his high football IQ and leadership as key reasons for the hire.
What power does Matt Ryan have as president of football?
Ryan will lead the searches for a new head coach and GM and oversee football decision-making while reporting directly to Arthur Blank.
When did Matt Ryan last play for the Falcons?
Matt Ryan last played for Atlanta in the 2021 NFL season, ending a 14-year career with the franchise.
Is Matt Ryan considered the greatest Falcon of all time?
Yes. Many consider Ryan the greatest player in Falcons history due to his longevity, records and Super Bowl appearance.
Will Matt Ryan still work for CBS Sports?
No. Ryan is leaving his role as an NFL analyst at CBS Sports to take on the Falcons executive position.
Can Matt Ryan fix the Falcons?
That remains to be seen. His success will largely depend on his coaching and GM hires and his ability to build a sustainable football culture.
Are other NFL teams hiring former players as executives?
Yes. Several teams have experimented with former players in executive roles, with varying degrees of success.
What’s next for the Falcons after Matt Ryan’s hiring?
The immediate focus is hiring a new head coach and general manager, followed by reshaping the roster and long-term strategy.