Matt Ryan: Fantasy Scouting Report

Matt Ryan   

Atlanta Falcons   

Age: 23   

Height: 6'4"

Weight: 220 lbs

Why We Like Ryan 

The numbers weren’t gaudy, but fantasy football is all about predicting the future, not dwelling in the past.

Matt Ryan stepped under center as a rookie in Week One on a team that was coming off a miserable 4-12 record. He immediately turned the ship around, leading the Atlanta Falcons to a playoff berth (he also threw a touchdown on his very first NFL pass attempt). 

He’s got poise, patience, a strong arm, and most importantly, an arsenal of big play weapons at his disposal. The trade for Pro-Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez is going to have a much bigger impact that anyone thinks. 

Why We Don’t Like Ryan

He’s still young and relatively inexperienced, so there is a slight risk that comes with drafting Ryan.  Expect some interceptions. Additionally, Roddy White's holdout and Harry Douglas' season-ending injury aren't helping matters.

Fantasy Outlook—Sleeper Alert

If there is one stat we dwell over in the war room for quarterbacks, it’s YPA (yards per attempt). As a rookie, Ryan tied for fourth in the NFL with 7.9 yards per attempt.

Running back Michael Turner is going to force opposing defenses to play the Falcons honestly, opening up the lanes for Ryan to target Pro-Bowl wide receiver Roddy White. 

When defenses begin to roll coverage in White’s direction, Ryan will have the luxury of checking down to Gonzalez. This offense has the potential to be nasty this season. 

We’re banking the National Football Post has Ryan ranked higher than other publications, so he could be a major steal come draft day.

Hit me up on Twitter: @JoeFortenbaugh

If you enjoy these scouting reports, be sure to check out the National Football Post's 2009 Fantasy Draft Guide.