NFL franchise Atlanta Falcons have just witnessed the end of the quarterback Matt Ryan era after 14 seasons in the NFL. He will be joining the Indianapolis Colts organization, which will be sending a 2022 3rd-round draft pick. The departure marks the end of an association between the Falcons and Ryan. It has been a memorable ride for both the fans and Ryan himself.
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The move for the Falcons QB made by the Colts is a result of Carson Wentz’s departure to the Washington Commanders. He will become the Colts’ seventh different Week 1 starter in the last 7 years. He will be the 5th different starting quarterback in coach Frank Reich’s tenure as the search for success takes center stage.
The Falcons have also reacted swiftly as they will be replacing Ryan with a familiar QB in Marcus Mariota.
Touchdown (in) Indy. 🛬 pic.twitter.com/4fkobEhWHX
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) March 22, 2022
Falcons head coach Arthur Smith will be running his offensive scheme with Mariota. They both are familiar with each other from their time together with the Tennessee Titans. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the incoming Mariota will be signing a 2-year, $18.75 million deal.
How the Falcons moved on from their talisman Matt Ryan
Atlanta seems to have been planning for a future without Ryan for some time now. Even owner Arthur Blank did give Ryan his flowers for his service. He describes how Ryan represented them with class and professionalism while being a leader for a decade and a half. He also shared his remorse about his departure while talking about his impact upon him and his organization.
Though Ryan was unable to win them a Super Bowl title, he came close against the New England Patriots. The Falcons blew a 28-3 lead to lose 34-28 in overtime, which will be a lasting legacy for his NFL career. Ryan also won his only NFL MVP honor with the organization, and Arthur Blank, the owner of Falcons, hints at adding him into the Atlanta Ring Of Honor.
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The No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft was under pressure to deliver and was durable by being available every season. The 4-time Pro Bowler missed only three games- two in 2009 and one in 2019 throughout his 14-year career. It seems that coach Smith and the Falcons fans will be now relying upon Mariota to take over and deliver in 2022.
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