The Atlanta Falcons have officially named legendary quarterback Matt Ryan as their new President of Football Operations.
The announcement, made Tuesday, Jan. 13 at a packed press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marks a triumphant homecoming for the man who once led the team to Super Bowl glory and now steps into a pivotal front-office role to shape the franchise’s future.
In his first remarks as president, Ryan expressed gratitude and enthusiasm: “I am so excited to be a part of this organization. I didn’t know much about the city before I got here, and now here we are, however years later, and it’s home. It really is.”
“I’m at the same table, but my seat has changed,” Ryan said, alluding to his new role in the organization. “There is a sense of unfinished business. We were close at times and had some success here and there, but i truly believe we’re going to get there.”
Matt Ryan: ‘There’s a Sense of Unfinished Business‘
Blank said that the Falcons interviewed five people, including Ryan. Fresh off the firing of their head coach and general manager, the Falcons are looking for Ryan to immediately work on filling those positions.
Ryan, affectionately known as “Matty Ice” during his 14-year tenure with the Falcons, retired from playing in 2023 after a storied career that included stints with the Indianapolis Colts.
A first-round draft pick out of Boston College in 2008, he quickly became the face of the franchise, amassing over 59,000 passing yards, 367 touchdowns, and earning the NFL MVP award in 2016.
At the end of that same season, he orchestrated one of the most memorable campaigns in Falcons history, guiding the team to Super Bowl LI with his poise under pressure and pinpoint accuracy.
After hanging up his cleats, Ryan transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting and philanthropy, but his heart never strayed far from Atlanta. Blank praised the decision, stating, “He led us through the most successful 14 years of our franchise. Everything between football and grass he is responsible for.”
The role of President of Football Operations places Ryan at the helm of the team’s football strategy, overseeing scouting, player personnel, coaching staff decisions, and long-term roster planning. This comes at a crucial time for the Falcons, who have been rebuilding since their last playoff appearance in 2017.
With a young core including quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and running back Bijan Robinson, Ryan’s expertise could be the catalyst for a return to contention in the NFC South.
Local fans are buzzing about the hire. “Matt Ryan back in the fold? That’s huge for us,” said longtime season ticket holder Jamal Thompson. “He knows what it takes to win here—no one’s better equipped to fix our front office.”
As the Falcons gear up for the offseason, Ryan’s immediate priorities include evaluating free agency targets, preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, and fostering a culture of excellence. Insiders suggest he may draw from his experiences under coaches like Mike Smith and Dan Quinn to implement data-driven decisions and innovative training regimens.
This appointment isn’t just a nod to nostalgia; it’s a strategic play to leverage Ryan’s deep football IQ and Atlanta roots. For a franchise hungry for success, Matty Ice’s return could be the chill factor that turns the heat up on the competition.
