Atlanta Falcons: Fantasy Outlook Finishing the Season
By Adnan Ikic
Guts, Glory, Leadership: Matt Ryan (23-30, 306 Passing Yards, 1 Touchdown: 14.34 Points)
Dec 27, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws the ball under pressure from Carolina Panthers defensive end Charles Johnson (95) in the third quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
I’ve often criticized Matt Ryan in these articles due to the fact that he never lived up to expectations as a fantasy draft pick in the top five rounds, but I will never question his toughness.
Ryan picked up an injury to his side after a scramble play for first down on the first drive (he didn’t slide, either), but kept standing tall in the pocket despite getting battered, throughout.
As for the fantasy aspect, it once again wasn’t a good game for a quarterback, scoring less than 15 points. This is one of those situations, however, where fantasy doesn’t coincide with reality, as Ryan had a wonderful game.
Analysis: I will have to wait to decisively advise which round you should take Ryan in. We still have to see how many offensive line reinforcements there will be, and if the Falcons bring in a number 2 wide receiver. As of now, I wouldn’t take Ryan as anything other than a QB2, and I wouldn’t do it until at least the 10th round.