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Former MVP Matt Ryan retires from NFL

Icon Sportswire / Getty

Quarterback Matt Ryan announced his retirement from the NFL on Monday following a prolific 15 seasons in the league.

During a career that spanned 2008-22, Ryan spent most of his time with the Atlanta Falcons. He signed a one-day contract to retire as a member of the Falcons this week.

Atlanta drafted the Pennsylvania native with the third overall pick in the 2008 draft. The Boston College product established himself as the starting quarterback during his rookie season. He helped lead Atlanta to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth in his first season and was named Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Affectionately known as "Matty Ice," Ryan was noted for his cool demeanor in the face of adversity.

Ryan's most memorable campaign occurred during the 2016 season. He threw for a career-high 4,944 yards and 38 touchdowns to lead the Falcons to an 11-5 mark and a Super Bowl appearance. He was named the league's MVP and Offensive Player of the Year that season. He also earned four Pro Bowl nods over the course of his career.

Following his 14th season in Atlanta, the Falcons traded Ryan to the Indianapolis Colts in March 2022. He led the Colts to a 4-7-1 record in his final NFL season, missing a pair of games due to a shoulder injury before being benched.

Ryan is the Falcons' all-time passing leader in most statical categories. He leaves the game having thrown for 62,792 yards, 381 touchdowns, and 183 interceptions with a 93.6 career passer rating.

He currently serves as an NFL analyst for CBS Sports.

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