Atlanta Falcons: Is Matt Ryan’s bad start a cause for concern?

Matt Ryan struggled the short time that he was in the Atlanta Falcons preseason opener against the Washington Redskins. He went 0-4 on passing attempts as the first team offense failed to look even remotely threatening. Should his performance be cause for concern?

Matt Ryan was one of the key players fans are paying attention to this season after his less than impressive 2015. While preseason stats and wins mean little they mean more for Ryan then they have in seasons past. Ryan needs to be able to demonstrate his ability to understand and succeed with the new playbook.

Four pass attempts are not enough of a track record to be concerned about just yet. While zero completions may seem like a big number when you balance it out with the fact he only tried four passes it becomes far less concerning.

Ryan is an established veteran and knows what he needs to do this preseason to be ready. If he does not show improvement over the next two preseason games then there may be some legitimate cause for concern. Until that happens however there is no need to be worried about four pass attempts that when it comes down to it mean nothing.

Preseason is a time for young players to shine and for established veterans to get themselves in shape and ready for the games that count. Ryan knows that and will continue to improve throughout the season process.

What should be focused on is the improvements made on the defense and how much better they may be capable of being.

Next: Atlanta Falcons: Pass rush still needs work

As well as focusing on the numerous young players who are trying to establish themselves on a roster with plenty of spots still open heading into the second week of preseason.