Could former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan soon be leaving CBS for a new gig?
Since 2023, Ryan has served as an analyst for CBS Sports in its studio shows and the broadcast booth. But the Falcons reportedly want the 2016 NFL MVP to rejoin the organization in a front-office role.
“[The] Atlanta Falcons have had conversations with their former Pro Bowl QB Matt Ryan about rejoining the Falcons in a front office role,” wrote Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer on X. “While [the] two sides [are] still discussing, people close to Ryan say he’s seriously considering this move and talks are ongoing. It would be a significant role in the front office.”
Perhaps Ryan would replace or serve as an advisor to Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot. Atlanta has made no playoff appearances since Fontenot assumed the role before the 2021 season. Would adding the former QB turn the franchise around?
Does Matt Ryan have what it takes to be a successful NFL executive?
Hiring Ryan would certainly be a popular move among the fan base. In 14 seasons with the Falcons, the 2008 first-round pick made four Pro Bowls and became the franchise’s all-time leader in passing touchdowns (367). The QB also guided the team to Super Bowl LI during the 2016 season, where it blew a 28-3 lead and lost 34-28 to the New England Patriots in overtime.
Whether Ryan’s success as a player will translate to the front office is difficult to determine. The track record of former players-turned-executives is mixed.
Some thrive, like San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch. The 49ers have made two Super Bowls since the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers/Denver Broncos safety became the team’s GM in 2017.
Others, meanwhile, have struggled. Look at former Patriots/Buccaneers QB Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Entering Week 17, the Raiders were 2-13, putting them on track to finish with a losing record for a second straight season.
So, who knows if Ryan will cut it as an executive? Regardless, the Falcons are banking on him giving their front office a fresh perspective and credibility. Atlanta could use that after missing the playoffs for eight straight seasons.