Matt Ryan Net Worth, Career, and Post-Retirement Legacy
Matt Ryan, a retired NFL quarterback, left an enduring legacy in professional football, particularly with the Atlanta Falcons. Born on May 17, 1985, the 39-year-old former athlete, also known as “Matty Ice,” boasts a net worth of $70 million as of 2024. Over his 15-year career, Ryan earned more than $300 million in salary alone. He is married to Sarah Marshall, and the couple has three children: twin boys born in 2018 and a third son welcomed in 2023. This article explores Ryan’s journey, from his rise as a standout at Boston College to his post-retirement career in broadcasting.
Early Years
Matt Ryan was born and raised in Exton, Pennsylvania, where he developed a passion for sports at an early age. A multi-sport athlete, Ryan excelled at William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. His standout performances on the football field attracted national attention, ultimately leading him to accept a scholarship from Boston College.
College Success
At Boston College, Ryan flourished as one of the top quarterbacks in the country. During his senior season in 2007, he led the Eagles to an 11-3 record while amassing 4,507 passing yards and 31 touchdowns. His stellar season earned him several awards, including the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and the Manning Award, both of which solidified his status as a top NFL draft prospect.
NFL Draft
In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons selected Ryan as the third overall pick. From his very first game, it was evident that Ryan was a game-changer. He won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and led the Falcons to the playoffs, a feat that set the tone for his illustrious career.
Prolific Career
Matt Ryan spent 14 seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, where he rewrote the team’s record books. His accolades include a four-time Pro Bowl selection and numerous franchise records, such as the most passing yards, touchdowns, and completions. Ryan’s most notable season came in 2016 when he won both the NFL Most Valuable Player and the NFL Offensive Player of the Year awards. He also led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI, although they ultimately lost to the New England Patriots in one of the most dramatic Super Bowl finishes in history.
Career Milestones
Ryan’s longevity and consistency are underscored by his remarkable career statistics. He ranks ninth in NFL history for passing yards (62,792) and touchdown passes (381), and seventh in completions (5,551). His 65.6% career completion rate and 93.6 passer rating are further testaments to his efficiency as a quarterback.
Contract Earnings
Ryan’s immense on-field success translated into substantial financial rewards. Over his career, he earned $303,713,631 in salary alone. His most lucrative deal came in 2018 when he signed a five-year, $150 million contract extension with the Falcons, briefly making him the highest-paid player in NFL history at the time. During his 14 seasons with the Falcons, Ryan earned a total of $267,007,749. His final season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022 netted him $36,705,882.
Real Estate
Ryan’s wealth is reflected in his real estate transactions. In 2017, he sold his penthouse condo at Atlanta’s Ritz-Carlton Residences for $3.7 million and also sold a 6.3-acre plot in the exclusive Tuxedo Park neighborhood for $4.75 million. He later purchased a new home in Tuxedo Park for $4.5 million, cementing his place among the elite athletes who have made their home in Atlanta.
Retirement Announcement
Matt Ryan officially announced his retirement on April 22, 2024, signing a ceremonial one-day contract to retire as a member of the Atlanta Falcons. His retirement brought an end to an incredible 15-year career, 14 of which were spent with the Falcons. To honor his contributions, the Falcons inducted Ryan into their Ring of Honor on October 3, 2024, further solidifying his place as one of the most important players in franchise history.
Broadcasting Career
After hanging up his cleats, Ryan quickly transitioned into a broadcasting career. In May 2023, he joined CBS Sports as a football analyst, becoming a regular presence on “The NFL Today” pre-game show for the 2024 season. Ryan’s sharp football intellect and on-field experience have made him a valuable addition to the broadcasting world.
Philanthropy
Ryan’s contributions extend beyond the football field. He has been actively involved in various charitable efforts, including a $500,000 donation in 2020 to help support the Black community in Atlanta. His philanthropy work is a reflection of his leadership and commitment to the city that supported him throughout his career.
Personal Life
Off the field, Matt Ryan enjoys a fulfilling family life. He married Sarah Marshall in 2011, a former athlete herself, having played basketball at Boston College. The couple welcomed their twin boys in 2018 and recently celebrated the birth of their third son in 2023. Ryan’s family background is steeped in football; his uncle, John Loughery, played quarterback at Boston College, and his cousin, Mike McGlinchey, currently plays as an offensive tackle for the San Francisco 49ers.
Legacy
Matt Ryan’s legacy in the NFL is secure. As one of the most prolific passers in the history of the league, his impact on the Atlanta Falcons franchise is undeniable. Although a Super Bowl title eluded him, Ryan’s career is a testament to consistency, leadership, and professional excellence. His post-football endeavors in broadcasting, philanthropy, and family life further illustrate his multifaceted success and contributions to the community.
Ryan’s journey from Boston College to the NFL and beyond is an inspiring narrative of hard work, dedication, and resilience, leaving a lasting mark on professional football and the city of Atlanta.
