Even before camp and preseason have begun, it has become glaring just how much the Atlanta Falcons are benefiting from having Matt Ryan back in the fold. Already, tight end Kyle Pitts noted that it was fitting to have Ryan's familiar leadership style back in the fold. Pitts was far from the only player to note the presence of Ryan and the excitement around the return of a quarterback who was pushed out in frustrating fashion after presenting the longest period of stability in the history of the franchise.
The Falcons pushed away Ryan after a rough 2021 season left reason to consider changes. It seemed that Atlanta's decision-makers believed it was a wise idea to chase Deshaun Watson and land on Marcus Mariota, leaving Ryan playing his final season with the Colts.
In the years since, the former quarterback spent time in the CBS playcalling booth before stepping away to become the leader of Atlanta's organization. It seems that only owner Arthur Blank is over Ryan, making it clear that the former star will set the tone for the organization.
While it remains to be seen if Ryan is a good front office decision-maker, fans already know the extent of the quarterback's leadership. It is this same style that will be of great benefit to current players, regardless of how the decision-making ages moving forward.
Falcons Clearly Benefit from Matt Ryan's Presence No Matter Front Office Decisions
It is important to note that the Falcons shouldn't excuse future decision failures based simply on Ryan's history as a player. However, what it is pointing out is the value of having Ryan around, not only Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa, but young players who have never had the advantage of Ryan's leadership.
During the Atlanta legend's career, he was noted for fiery leadership within the locker room and quiet accountability in the media and away from the team. It is the type of example that could help set the tone for the franchise to return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2017 season.
This was a year after Ryan won MVP and led one of the league's best offenses of the last decade. The hope remains that Ryan's return unlocks this version of Atlanta and gives the team a needed reset after years of frustration. Regardless of the answer, the Falcons made a wise decision and gave key players a chance to learn from arguably the best player in franchise history.
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