The Atlanta Falcons staged a full-court press to sell quarterback Deshaun Watson on joining their organization, but came up short. Watson was ultimately traded to the Cleveland Browns, leaving Atlanta to repair their now-damaged relationship with Matt Ryan.
For Ryan, the message was clear as day: The Falcons are beginning to look for alternative options.
The clock, as they say, is ticking.
Left emptyhanded, Atlanta now finds itself in an undesirable position. They’ve isolated their franchise quarterback and all-time leading passer, and are desperate to repair that relationship. Why? Because they’re now out of options after going all-in and losing on the river.
What about the #Falcons?
Atlanta will turn their attention to making Matt Ryan feel wanted while he considers his options.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 18, 2022
The 36-year-old Ryan still has two years remaining on a five-year, $150 million extension that was signed in 2015. He will account for a cap hit of $48.66 million in 2022 and $43.61 million in 2023.
Those are big numbers for an aging quarterback who is now likely upset with the organization. And while the Falcons will aim to smooth things over, don’t be surprised if Ryan seeks a trade to, say, the Indianapolis Colts or Seattle Seahawks.
No one likes being a second thought while in a committed relationship.
Photo: Jan 31, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan answers questions during a press conference at Westin Houston Memorial City Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
