(Photo by Mike Zarrilli/Getty Images)
Matt Ryan
Atlanta Falcons
Age: 23
Height: 6’4’’
Weight: 220lbs
Bye: 4
Why We Like Him: The numbers weren’t gaudy, but fantasy football is all about predicting the future, not dwelling in the past. Ryan stepped under center as a rookie in Week 1 of a team that was coming off a miserable 4-12 record and immediately turned the ship around, leading the 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 Him: He’s still young and relatively inexperienced, so there is a slight risk that comes with drafting Ryan. Expect some interceptions.
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.
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