Where does former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan rank among the greatest players at his position? On a statistical level, Ryan has the seventh-most passing yards (62,792) in NFL history and ranks ninth all-time in touchdown passes (381).
Despite his on-field accomplishments in Atlanta, Ryan’s efforts weren’t always appreciated by the Falcons fan base. During an interview with Cam Newton, Ryan was asked whether or not he felt appreciated by the fans during his 14-year run in Atlanta.
“The short answer, is probably no,” said Ryan. “But, at the same time, I’m proud of what I did, and the time that I spent there. I think there was a level of consistency that we provided. The division was a juggernaut.”
Newton, an Atlanta, native, said he brought the topic up because he felt Ryan hasn’t received the respect he deserves.
“But the reason why I ask that question — a native of Atlanta,” said Newton. “I went through the transition from the Michael Vick to Matt Ryan, and I will say I don’t think you do have the measure of respect of the body of work that you did.”
The two went on to discuss the philanthropic work that Ryan has done throughout the city of Atlanta, even after leaving the organization in 2022. However, the biggest issue many have with Ryan is the fact that he was part of the team’s Super Bowl collapse.
Obviously, a loss like that stays with you, but Ryan doesn’t deserve to have his entire legacy tarnished over the result of a game in which he performed extremely well. Ryan completed 17 of 23 pass attempts for 284 yards, two touchdowns and a passer rating of 144.1 in that fateful loss to the Patriots.
