If the Atlanta Falcons had clinched victory in Super Bowl LI, it might have been the crowning achievement in Matt Ryan's illustrious career. While that elusive ring remains out of reach, Ryan's path to Canton seems inevitable, and his legacy remains untarnished. Despite the outcome of that unforgettable game, Ryan's reputation as one of the greats endures, a sentiment echoed by Bleacher Report's ranking of the top 99 quarterbacks in NFL history.
In these rankings, Ryan is positioned at 41st, surpassing notable names like Drew Bledsoe, Rich Gannon, and Donovan McNabb. Had the Falcons emerged victorious in February 2017, Ryan's place on this list could have been even higher.
Reflecting on that game, it's easy to wonder how different things might be if not for some defensive lapses and questionable play-calling. Yet, Ryan's credentials speak for themselves.
With a spot in the top 45, his career achievements remain impressive. He ranks ninth all-time in career passing yards and boasts a remarkable streak of over 4,000 passing yards in ten consecutive seasons.
Ryan's tenure as the last quarterback to lead the Falcons to significant postseason success underscores his greatness. While some might debate the rankings, comparing him to talents like Josh Allen, Randall Cunningham, or Sonny Jurgensen, Ryan's impact is undeniable.
Fox Sports also recognized Ryan, ranking him as the third-best quarterback never to win a Super Bowl, trailing only Dan Marino and Philip Rivers. The debate between Rivers and Ryan is compelling, given their similar yardage and career trajectories.
Ultimately, if the Falcons had triumphed in Super Bowl LI, discussions about Ryan's legacy might be moot. Nevertheless, seeing him receive recognition for his stellar career is gratifying, especially as he continues to guide the franchise into a promising new chapter.