Matt Ryan Biography

Matthew Thomas Ryan, born on May 17, 1985, is an American professional football executive and former quarterback who serves as the president of football for the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. Nicknamed "Matty Ice," he played in the NFL for 15 seasons, primarily with the Atlanta Falcons. He played college football for the Boston College Eagles, winning the Manning and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Awards and earning first-team All-American honors in 2007. Ryan was selected third overall by the Falcons in the 2008 NFL draft and led them to the playoffs in his first season, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year. During his 14-year tenure with Atlanta, Ryan achieved six playoff berths, three division championships, four Pro Bowl honors, and one first-team All-Pro recognition. Ryan attended William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia, where he was a three-year starter and earned All-East honors from Larunt Lemming Prep Football Report. He played football, basketball, and baseball in high school and was named captain of all three teams during his senior year.