Ryan Goes No. 3
The Michael Vick Era is officially over in Atlanta. Well, I guess it already was officially over, but now it’s officially official with the Falcons’ selection of QB Matt Ryan at No. 3 overall.
There had been some whispers that the Jets may have had at least a passing interest in Ryan were he to fall to them at No. 6, however, now we’ll never know whether or not that interest was legitimate or merely a smoke screen.
ESPN’s breakdown of Ryan:
Strengths: Absolutely looks the part of an NFL quarterback. Is tall enough to scan the entire field from within the pocket and is sturdy enough to withstand the pounding at the next level. Is extremely intelligent and has a tremendous work ethic. Picked up new scheme as a senior very quickly. Displays excellent footwork and delivery. Shows good touch and timing as a passer. takes something off underneath passes and can lead receiver when throwing underneath. Overall accuracy is good and shows the ability to throw accurately on the run. Puts good touch on downfield passes and flashes the ability to drop the ball in over coverage. Displays very good presence in the pocket and is capable of avoiding the rush with his quick thinking and feet. Possesses ideal intangibles. Shows great poise, is a leader on-and-off the field and wants the ball in hands late in games.Weaknesses: He will force some throws when the protection breaks down. Field vision is a bit inconsistent still. He has failed to find the open receiver a few too many times as a senior. Isn’t going to make defenders miss, doesn’t have great top-end speed and isn’t a dangerous open field runner that can consistently pick up yards with feet. He has eased concerns regarding durability but it’s still a minor issue; he sustained a high-ankle spring during the 2006 season opener, broke bone in left foot during 2006 Virginia Tech game and underwent foot surgery in January, 2007.
Best of all, he loves dogs.






















