Arthur Smith not ‘backing himself in corner’ over Matt Ryan’s future with Falcons

Before the Falcons kicked off their season finale against the Saints at Mercedes Benz Stadium, reports surfaced that confirmed Matt Ryan would be Arthur Smith’s quarterback in 2022.

In what was going to be the Falcons’ biggest story this offseason, the imminent and rampant speculation regarding Ryan’s future with the team were put to rest before they even gained steam.

Chris Mortensen is a credible reporter, and his sentiments regarding Ryan’s status should be taken seriously; however, Arthur Smith left the door open. In his post-game presser, the first-year head coach told reporters that they “wouldn’t back themselves in a corner” pertaining to Ryan’s place with the Falcons.

Here are Falcons HC Arthur Smith’s full answers when I asked him about @mortreport reporting that he told Fontenot & Blank he wants Matt Ryan to be their QB in 2022: pic.twitter.com/1iRRGIBp6Z

— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) January 10, 2022

Matt Ryan shared his own sentiments on the situation, explaining his desire to play for Arthur Smith in Atlanta.

Falcons QB Matt Ryan on if he wants to return next year: pic.twitter.com/sAcRhuDl4S

— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) January 10, 2022

Falcons fans should expect Ryan to be under center in 2022, but the fact that Smith said he wouldn’t back himself into a corner leaves the door open to move the veteran quarterback. Obviously, this was the smart thing to do, but I trust Mortensen’s reporting. The feelings inside the building have to be that Ryan gives them the best chance to win right now, which is the only thing the new regime cares about.