Falcons hire Matt Ryan as President of Football

The Atlanta Falcons hired former quarterback Matt Ryan as their new President of Football to help lead searches for a general manager and head coach, and the team says he will set the club's vision and identity.

The Atlanta Falcons have hired former quarterback Matt Ryan into a newly created front-office role titled President of Football. This move follows the team's decision to part ways with head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after consecutive 8-9 seasons. Ryan's first assignment is to assist with the searches for a new head coach and general manager. The club has said his responsibilities will include shaping the team's vision and identity and working with senior executives on resources and operations. Key facts: - Matt Ryan was hired to a newly created role, President of Football, with the Falcons. - His initial duties include helping search for a new general manager and a new head coach. - Team owner Arthur Blank announced Ryan will set the team's vision and identity and have final say on football decisions. - The head coach and general manager will report to Ryan, and he will work alongside President and CEO Greg Beadles on operational alignment. - Ryan played 15 seasons in the NFL, was drafted third overall in 2008, spent 14 years with Atlanta before leaving in 2022, and formally retired with the Falcons on April 22, 2024. - CelebrityNetWorth is cited in reporting as estimating Ryan's net worth at $70 million, noting income from his playing career and recent broadcasting work. Summary: This hire represents a notable reorganization of football decision-making in Atlanta, concentrating oversight in a President of Football role. Ryan will lead the immediate searches for a new general manager and head coach and will work with club leadership to align resources toward on-field performance. Specifics of his ongoing responsibilities after those searches are undetermined at this time.