Matt Ryan hints at potential NFL return
Matt Ryan, a seasoned veteran of the NFL, has had an illustrious career spanning 15 years—14 of which were spent with the Atlanta Falcons and the final year with the Indianapolis Colts. Renowned for his accolades, including a league MVP award and four Pro Bowl selections, Ryan was instrumental in leading the Falcons to a Super Bowl appearance during the 2016 season, as well as two NFC Championship games.
A surprising revelation
During a recent appearance on the NFL Network, Ryan shared an unexpected insight into his post-retirement mindset. He revealed that he is not the only retired quarterback who has received inquiries to return to the league. “There were a few times that year [2023],” he disclosed when asked about the last time teams reached out to him. “But nothing that was right for me or the family, or for the teams, for that matter.”
This admission underscores the reality that, even as a former player, the allure of the game can linger long after the final whistle has blown.
The possibility of a comeback
Despite officially stepping away from the sport after the 2022 season, Ryan admitted that thoughts of making a comeback have not entirely disappeared. “I’ve had these feelings where I’ve been sitting and watching games and been like, man, I think I could go out there and do it,” he reflected during his segment on NFLonCBS. This sentiment resonates deeply with many former athletes who find it challenging to fully detach from the competitive environment of professional sports.
Rivers’ return adds fuel to the fire
Ryan’s contemplation of a return to the field comes at a time when Phillip Rivers, another prominent quarterback, recently made headlines by suiting up for the Indianapolis Colts after a five-year hiatus. Rivers’ unexpected re-entry into the NFL has sparked conversations about the feasibility of comebacks for retired athletes, adding a layer of intrigue to Ryan’s own musings.
As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, the possibility of Ryan rejoining the ranks remains a topic of speculation. While he weighs the implications for himself and his family, the competitive fire within him suggests that the door to a return may not be entirely closed.
