Falcons Ex QB Matt Ryan Returns to Atlanta; Retirement Next?

After 14 years as the quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, Matt Ryan was traded to the Indianapolis Colts last offseason - but on Sunday, he was back in Atlanta, this time as a spectator.

Matt Ryan may no longer by the quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, but his heart still resides in the city.

The 37-year-old Ryan, traded by the Falcons to the Indianapolis Colts last offseason after 14 years at the helm, was back in Atlanta on Sunday, taking in a Hawks basketball game with his son.

Even chillier than usual in the arena today 🧊🧊 pic.twitter.com/kajNAGS4z9

— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) February 26, 2023

Ryan's wife, Sarah, quote tweeted the image with the caption, "Lets go Hawks!"

Atlanta took a dramatic 129-127 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, winning its second game in as many tries since firing coach Nate McMillan.

It's not exactly a surprise to see Ryan in Atlanta; after all, he never sold his recently built house after the trade last March. However, for many across the city, it's certainly pleasant to see him back in town.

Ryan dominates the top of the Falcons leaderboard in several passing related stats, including yards (59,735), touchdowns (367) and completion percentage (65.5) among those with at least 200 passing attempts.

The No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft is also the current franchise leader in game-winning drives (42) and fourth quarterback comebacks (33), earning the nickname "Matty Ice" for his clutch performances.

But that was then, and this is now - where Ryan is taking in games with one of his two twin sons after a season in which he was benched twice.

The question now is whether Ryan will return to the gridiron for a 16th season ... or opts to enter the broadcast booth, which he's reportedly "very interested" in doing beyond his playing days.

And still, that's the future - but for now, Ryan's back in Atlanta ... this time, taking in the entertainment rather than providing it.

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You can follow Daniel Flick on Twitter @DFlickDraft

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