Falcons hire former star QB Matt Ryan in high-ranking role

Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is making another career change, and this time, he is returning to a familiar spot.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank announced in a statement on Saturday that Ryan has been named the team's new president of football. The Falcons recently created the role amid a total leadership rebuild that included firing former head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot.

Ryan had been viewed as the favorite to join the Falcons' front office from the time they announced they were searching for a president of football.

"Throughout his remarkable 14-year career in Atlanta, Matt's leadership, attention to detail, knowledge of the game and unrelenting drive to win made him the most successful player in our franchise's history," Blank said in a statement. "I am confident those same qualities will be a tremendous benefit to our organization as he steps into this new role. From his playing days to his time as an analyst at CBS, Matt has always been a student of the game, and he brings an astute understanding of today's NFL, as well as unique knowledge of our organization and this market. I have full confidence and trust in Matt as we strive to deliver a championship caliber team for Atlanta and Falcons fans everywhere."

Ryan is expected to have major influence over Atlanta's search for a new head coach and general manager.

Matt Ryan says farewell to CBS

Ryan has been working as an analyst for CBS over the past three seasons. He joined the network when he retired from playing after the 2022 season and has enjoyed success in his media role. Ryan issued a statement on Saturday morning thanking CBS.

"I want to thank the incredible team at CBS Sports. I loved my three years there and I am truly grateful for their support in pursuing this opportunity," Ryan wrote. "The CBS Sports culture is amazing, and I have made teammates and friends for life."