Former Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan ceremoniously concluded his illustrious football career by signing a one-day contract with the Atlanta Falcons, the NFL franchise that selected him as the third overall pick in the 2008 draft.
Ryan, revered for steering BC to a remarkable No. 2 ranking in 2007, etched his name in the annals of the program’s history as its highest-drafted player before starting a remarkable 15-year journey in the NFL.
During his remarkable tenure as the Falcons’ starting quarterback from 2008 to 2021, Ryan showcased unparalleled consistency, missing a mere three starts throughout his tenure in Atlanta.
His remarkable journey culminated with a final season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022. Across his illustrious career, Ryan amassed a commendable record of 124 wins, 109 losses, and one tie in 234 starts.
His legacy is further solidified by his ranking among the NFL’s elite, with his 62,792 passing yards placing him seventh all-time, while his 381 touchdowns rank ninth, and his 5,551 passing completions rank fifth.
Ryan’s career highlights are punctuated by his remarkable achievements, notably earning the coveted MVP and Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2016.
This remarkable season culminated in the Falcons’ triumphant second NFC Championship victory.
Additionally, Ryan’s stellar performance earned him recognition as an All-Pro First Team selection, boasting an impressive 117.1 passer rating coupled with a career-high 4,944 passing yards and 38 touchdowns, all while throwing just seven interceptions.
Throughout his tenure, Ryan’s prowess was consistently acknowledged, garnering four Pro Bowl selections and clinching the Offensive Rookie of the Year award in his debut season.
His arrival not only rejuvenated the Falcons but also revitalized a franchise that had languished in playoff obscurity for four consecutive years.
During his tenure at Boston College, Ryan was a pivotal figure, contributing five years of dedication and prowess to the Eagles from 2003 to 2007.
After redshirting his true freshman season in 2003, he gradually ascended through the ranks, notching six starts in 14 appearances between 2004 and 2005.
However, it was in 2006 that Ryan solidified his role as the team’s permanent starter, steering BC to a remarkable 10-3 record.
This marked the Eagles’ first 10-win season since the era of Doug Flutie and the 1984 team, culminating in a memorable victory over Navy in the Meineke Car Care Bowl.
The following season, Ryan spearheaded an unforgettable campaign that saw BC soar to unprecedented heights, reaching a pinnacle of No. 2 in the national polls.
The Eagles started an impressive 8-0 start, highlighted by a thrilling comeback win against Virginia Tech. The 2007 squad clinched the ACC Atlantic Division title and made its inaugural appearance in the ACC Championship Game.
Ryan’s exceptional performance earned him prestigious accolades, including the Manning Award and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
The season culminated with a triumphant victory over Michigan State in the Champs Sports Bowl, culminating in an impressive 11-3 finish.
Recognized as the 2007 ACC Player of the Year, Ryan’s final season at BC was adorned with honors, including All-ACC First Team and AFCA All-America distinctions.
In a fitting tribute to his remarkable contributions, Ryan’s No. 12 jersey was retired at Alumni Stadium in 2016. He etched his name in the BC record books by setting the single-season passing yards record with 4,507 in 2007, ranking third in career yards with 9,313.
Additionally, Ryan established the single-season touchdown record with 31 in 2007, placing third all-time with 56 career touchdowns.
His remarkable legacy includes a record-setting 12 career 300-yard games, while his 25 victories rank second in program history.
Looking ahead, Ryan stands poised as an eligible candidate for induction into the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2028.
