Falcons GM: Matt Ryan trade will 'improve our organization for the long term'

Matt Ryan's 14-year run with the Atlanta Falcons, which included NFL MVP honors in 2016 and a run to Super Bowl LI, came to an abrupt and unceremonious end Monday with a trade to the Indianapolis Colts.

Atlanta received only a third-round pick in exchange for Ryan and will eat over $40 million in dead salary cap space following the trade, the largest amount in NFL history. Shortly after the trade was finalized, Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot said in a statement that he believes the move will help the team in the long run.

"I've seen firsthand from within the division and within the building the type of leader Matt is," Fontenot's statement reads. "We thank him for being the consummate professional throughout this process and having the open dialogue as we work towards the best long-term plans for both sides. This was a difficult decision, but it was made easier by Matt's professionalism and understanding throughout.

"Our goal in every decision is to improve our organization for the long term. We believe today's agreement is the best long-term decision, not only for our organization, but also the best for Matt at this point, which is important for us. We wish he and his family the best in their next steps."

The Falcons were reportedly a finalist to acquire Deshaun Watson in a blockbuster deal before the quarterback instead decided to join the Cleveland Browns. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the team's pursuit of Watson — while unsuccessful — led Ryan to make the decision that it was time to move on from Atlanta.