How the Falcons MVP Quarterback Is Paying Dividends in His New Presidential Role in 2026
After another disappointing end to Atlanta’s 2025 season, in which the team missed the playoffs for the eighth year in a row, owner Arthur Blank decided it’s time for another regime change. However, he didn’t just fire the coach or general manager; Blank completely cleaned house from top to bottom. Wanting to start on a completely fresh slate, his first act was to hire a franchise legend to become the team’s president. A former MVP comes back to the A to right the ship, and so far, it seems to be paying dividends for the franchise as a whole.
Former quarterback and the all-time leader in Atlanta Falcons passing yards, Matt Ryan, is now the president of football operations for the Dirty Birds. Ryan brings a truly unique role to Flowery Branch, as he’s been a huge help throughout the organization. From the players to management to the front office, he has only gotten positive feedback from his peers. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has been very open about his praise for Ryan’s impact on the team. When asked what it’s been like to work with the former league MVP, Stefanski told the media that he was “a tremendous resource” for the players and his staff. The head coach explained, “I think Matt has done a terrific job just in terms of helping a bunch of different departments.”
Ryan has been impactful on the players as well. The former Boston College quarterback was seen throwing balls to tight end Kyle Pitts during offseason workouts. Pitts was quite pleased to see his former teammate, “setting a fire under the team,” as he enters the 2026 season under a franchise tag. It hasn’t been just the offense, but the defense too. Ryan was seen having one-on-one chats with his former teammate, cornerback AJ Terrell, as well as with his younger brother, Avieon Terrell. He’s also spent time with the overlooked edge rusher, Jalon Walker, who looks to break out during his sophomore season. The former All-Pro quarterback has been very hands-on during OTAs, doing drills with the other quarterbacks and almost acting like another coach. “Matt’s role is unique, where he can assist the coaches, assist the players, and he can certainly assist the front office. He’s been a tremendous resource, certainly for me, but he’s touching all aspects of this building,” head coach Stefanski stated during his meetings with the press. Safe to say, Matt Ryan has already found his stride in connecting with all aspects of the Falcons organization.
