Matt Ryan

Following the tumultuous departure of quarterback Michael Vick in 2007, the Atlanta Falcons faced the harsh reality of a difficult season that was only further marred by the sudden mid season departure of their Head Coach. With a 4-12 record, the franchise was in despair and a long battle to reestablish themselves as a competitive NFL team was certain.

With a new General Manager and Head Coach, the Falcons used the #3 overall draft pick in the 2008 NFL Draft to select Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan hoping he would be the savior they needed. While it was clear Matt had enormous talent and potential, nothing but low expectations existed for the Falcons led by a rookie quarterback and first year head coach. Defying the odds, the Falcons compiled an 11-5 record and made the playoffs for the first time since 2004.

The Falcons lost in the first round of the playoffs to the high powered Arizona Cardinals, but Matt Ryan firmly established himself as one of the great young quarterbacks in the NFL. Winning the 2008 Offensive Rookie of the Year and the 2008 ESPY for Best Breakthrough Athlete, Matt's conquest to bring the Falcons back to prominence has only just begun.