Will former QB Matt Ryan soon be reuniting with Falcons in a different role?

Does Matt Ryan have what it takes to be a successful NFL executive?

Hiring Ryan would certainly be a popular move among the fan base. In 14 seasons with the Falcons, the 2008 first-round pick made four Pro Bowls and became the franchise's all-time leader in passing touchdowns (367). The QB also guided the team to Super Bowl LI during the 2016 season, where it blew a 28-3 lead and lost 34-28 to the New England Patriots in overtime. 

Whether Ryan's success as a player will translate to the front office is difficult to determine. The track record of former players-turned-executives is mixed. 

Some thrive, like San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch. The 49ers have made two Super Bowls since the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers/Denver Broncos safety became the team's GM in 2017. 

Others, meanwhile, have struggled. Look at former Patriots/Buccaneers QB Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Entering Week 17, the Raiders were 2-13, putting them on track to finish with a losing record for a second straight season. 

So, who knows if Ryan will cut it as an executive? Regardless, the Falcons are banking on him giving their front office a fresh perspective and credibility. Atlanta could use that after missing the playoffs for eight straight seasons.